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Effects of microplastics on the bones: a comprehensive review
Lauter E Pelepenko1, Mariana Cassani de Oliveira1, Daniela A Masaro1
1Laboratory for Evaluation of Mineral and Bone Disorders in Nephrology (LEMON), School of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (Unicamp), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
Summary
Micro- and nanoplastics (MPs) pose a risk to bone health. Studies show MPs negatively impact bone cells and marrow, potentially contributing to bone diseases like osteoporosis.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Bone Biology
Background:
- Modern lifestyle introduces new risk factors for bone diseases.
- Micro- and nanoplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants.
- MPs have been detected in human bone tissue, raising health concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on MPs' effects on bone and bone marrow.
- To explore the potential link between MPs and human bone diseases, including osteoporosis.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review.
- Literature search on in vitro and in vivo studies concerning MPs and bone health.
- Analysis of findings on cellular and animal models.
Main Results:
- In vitro studies show MPs affect cell viability, senescence, differentiation, gene expression, oxidative stress, inflammation, and osteoclastogenesis.
- MPs impair bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cell differentiation.
- Animal studies demonstrate MPs disrupt gut microbiota, reduce white blood cell counts, and negatively impact bone growth and microarchitecture.
Conclusions:
- MPs accumulate in bone tissue and negatively affect bone cells and marrow function.
- MPs may contribute to bone diseases like osteoporosis.
- The mechanistic impact of MPs in human bone and marrow requires further investigation.
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