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Microplastics and nanoplastics in the ocular environment: Pathways, toxic effects, and future challenges
Xiaotong Yu1, Na Zhou2, Qun Gao2
1School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.
Current Research in Toxicology
|August 18, 2025
Summary
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) pose risks to eye health. This review explores how MNPs enter the eye, their toxic effects on vision, and the need for further research to protect public health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are pervasive environmental contaminants.
- While MNP toxicity is studied in many organs, ocular impacts remain under-researched.
- The eye is a vulnerable target due to its delicate structure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review MNP entry routes into the eye.
- To examine MNP accumulation and toxic effects within ocular tissues.
- To highlight research gaps and future directions for MNP ocular toxicology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on MNPs and ocular health.
- Analysis of potential MNP exposure pathways to the eye.
- Synthesis of evidence on MNP-induced ocular toxicity mechanisms.
Main Results:
- MNPs can enter the eye through various pathways.
- Accumulation in ocular tissues may lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, genotoxicity, and neurotoxicity.
- Current research on MNP ocular effects is limited.
Conclusions:
- MNPs present a potential threat to ocular health and the visual system.
- Further research is crucial to understand MNP risks to vision.
- Developing strategies to mitigate MNP exposure is essential for public health.
