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Neurotoxicity of Microplastic Particles in the Human Brain: A Systematic Review

Sait Kayhan1, Ecma Yilmaz, Özkan Tehli

  • 1Gulhane School of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Department of Neurosurgery, Ankara, Turkiye.

Turkish Neurosurgery
|October 30, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Microplastics (MPs) pose a significant health risk, impacting the brain through oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Further research is needed to understand the long-term neurotoxic effects of MPs on cognitive function.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Neuroscience
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly prevalent environmental contaminants.
  • Concerns are rising regarding their potential impact on human health, particularly the nervous system.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the literature on the neurotoxic effects of microplastics (MPs) on the brain.
  • To synthesize current evidence on molecular, cellular, and clinical impacts.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines.
  • Searches conducted in PubMed and Web of Science using keywords: microplastics, human brain, health, and neurotoxicity.
  • Risk of bias assessed using the Revised Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials.

Main Results:

  • Eleven studies were included, revealing diverse effects of MPs at molecular, cellular, and clinical levels.
  • Key toxic effects include oxidative stress, energy disruption, neuroinflammation, altered biochemical pathways, and cell death.
  • Observed impacts on the human body range from molecular changes to clinical manifestations.

Conclusions:

  • Microplastics represent a significant global health concern with potential neurotoxic effects.
  • MPs can reach the nervous system, potentially causing behavioral and cognitive changes.
  • Current evidence is insufficient to determine long-term outcomes; further clinical studies are required to elucidate mechanisms.

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