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Role of microplastics in the tumor microenvironment (Review)

Yunjie Chen1, Zihang Zhang1, Kangming Ji1

  • 1Breast Disease Center, The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210029, P.R. China.

Oncology Letters
|March 5, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Microplastics (MPs) pose human health risks and may influence tumor progression by affecting the tumor microenvironment (TME). Further research is needed to understand these interactions and reduce microplastic pollution.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Toxicology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Microplastics (MPs) are widespread environmental contaminants.
  • Exposure occurs through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact, raising human health concerns.
  • MPs may impact disease development and potentially influence tumor progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review the relationship between microplastics and the tumor microenvironment (TME).
  • To analyze MP interactions with cellular and non-cellular components of the TME.
  • To identify future research directions and mitigation strategies for microplastic pollution.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on microplastic interactions within the TME.
  • Analysis of MP effects on tumor cells, stromal cells (macrophages, fibroblasts, endothelial cells), extracellular matrix, and inflammation.
  • Synthesis of current knowledge on MPs in tumorigenesis.

Main Results:

  • MPs interact with various components of the TME, potentially influencing tumor cell behavior.
  • Evidence suggests MPs can modulate inflammatory responses and stromal cell functions.
  • The TME is a critical interface for understanding the oncogenic potential of MPs.

Conclusions:

  • Microplastics may play a role in promoting tumorigenesis by altering the TME.
  • Further investigation is crucial to elucidate the mechanisms of MP-TME interactions.
  • Addressing microplastic pollution is essential for mitigating potential health risks.
Keywords:
extracellular matrixinflammationmicroplasticsstromal cellstumor cellstumor microenvironment

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