Integrated analysis of microplastics in human gallbladder and bile using multimodal detection techniques.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) are a growing environmental concern with potential human health implications.
• The presence and impact of MPs on the human hepatobiliary system remain largely uninvestigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and characterize microplastics in human gallbladder and bile samples.
• To identify the types and sizes of MPs present in the hepatobiliary system.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 23 human gallbladder and bile samples.
• Utilized pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, laser direct infrared spectroscopy (LD-IR), and scanning electron microscopy.
• Quantified MP concentrations, identified polymer types, and determined particle sizes.

Main Results:

• Microplastics were detected in 100% of all analyzed samples.
• Polyethylene (PE) was the most abundant polymer, with average concentrations of 13.2 µg/g in gallbladder tissue and 12.9 µg/g in bile.
• The majority of detected MPs ranged from 20 to 50 µm in size.

Conclusions:

• This study provides the first comprehensive characterization of MPs in human gallbladder and bile.
• Findings indicate widespread MP contamination in the hepatobiliary system.
• Establishes a foundation for future research on MP-associated health risks.