Immunomodulatory effects of Tritan copolyester on human neutrophils

Eastman Tritan™ copolyester, a novel plastic used as a replacement for bisphenols and manufactured utilizing three monomers, can be released from products, potentially entering biological fluids, and could exert estrogenic activity. Since neutrophils are inflammatory cells that express hormone receptors, we hypothesized that Tritan compounds could modulate neutrophil metabolism and function. Human neutrophils from the blood of healthy male and female donors were exposed in vitro to Tritan monomers, alone or combined with pro-inflammatory cytokines, and assessed for viability, metabolism, surface marker expression, and antimicrobial functions. Tritan compounds did not affect neutrophil viability but increased metabolic activity under inflammatory conditions. The production of CCL4/MIP-1β was reduced, while CXCL8/IL-8 was unchanged. Phagocytosis and reactive oxygen species production were altered in a dose-dependent manner, with the effect more pronounced in male neutrophils at lower doses and female neutrophils at higher doses. The expression of CD11b and CD16, adhesion and functional markers, was also modulated by Tritan monomers. These results indicate that Tritan and its monomers can alter neutrophil phenotype and function, potentially impairing host defence or contributing to dysregulated inflammation. These findings raise concerns about the safety of Tritan as an alternative plasticizer. Further research is needed to better understand the potential health risks of Tritan and its monomers, to help develop or update evidence-based regulations that protect public health.