Advancing Microplastic and Nanoplastic Toxicity Assessment: Insights from Human Organoid Models

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Human Organoid Technology

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) show toxicity in animal models, but human health risks are poorly understood due to a lack of relevant in vitro models.
• Human stem cell-derived organoids mimic native organ structures and functions, making them valuable tools in toxicological studies.
• Organoid technology is increasingly applied in toxicology for more human-relevant assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications of human organoids in assessing the toxicity of MPs and NPs.
• To identify limitations in using organoids for MP and NP toxicity testing.
• To discuss future perspectives and technological advancements in this field.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies utilizing human organoids for microplastic and nanoplastic toxicity assessment.
• Analysis of the capabilities and limitations of current organoid models in mimicking human exposure scenarios.
• Synthesis of findings to outline future research directions and technological integration.

Main Results:

• Human organoids provide a more human-relevant platform than traditional animal models for evaluating MP and NP toxicity.
• Current organoid models face challenges in fully replicating complex human physiological responses to plastic particles.
• The integration of advanced technologies with organoids is crucial for deeper insights into plastic particle toxicology.

Conclusions:

• Human organoids represent a significant advancement for in vitro toxicity assessment of MPs and NPs.
• Overcoming current limitations and leveraging cutting-edge technologies will enhance the predictive power of organoid models.
• Further research is essential to fully elucidate the potential human health risks associated with microplastic and nanoplastic exposure.