[Effects of microplastics exposure in development of mineralized tissues]

Microplastics are emerging pollutants of increasing concern, which can enter the human body through pathways such as diet, respiration and skin contact, inducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses and posing a potential risk on the formation and development of mineralized tissues in the body. Early life is a critical period for the formation and development of mineralized tissues. Microplastics can pass though the placental barrier during early life to affect the fetus directly by accumulating in the bone marrow and interfering with the development of the growth plate, leading to abnormal bone growth. Additionally, microplastics can act as carriers to release bisphenol A (BPA), synergistically enhancing the toxicity of pollutants such as lead and zinc oxide, thereby affecting the development of mineralized tissues. Therefore, exposure to microplastics during early life may be a significant environmental factor contributing to the abnormal development of mineralized tissues. Future researches are needed to explore the specific impacts and mechanisms of microplastics on maxillofacial and tooth development, to provide insights and theoretical foundations for the prevention and treatment of diseases related to the development of mineralized tissues.