Effects of micro- and nano-plastics exposure on cellular senescence: an overview

Micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) contamination has recently become a widespread concern. These particles have been detected in multiple human organs. MNPs can enter the human body through three ways: diet intake, inhalation and skin contact, subsequently entering the bloodstream and distributing throughout the body's tissue systems. The health risks posed by MNPs exposure are believed to be linked to cellular senescence, a state of stable cell growth arrest that significantly increases the risk of age-related diseases. The mechanisms of MNPs-induced cellular senescence are primarily associated with oxidative stress and DNA damage, and involve signaling pathways such as eNOS/SIRT1, cGAS-STING, and NF-κB. In this review, we examine the exposure pathways and distribution of MNPs in the human body, the characteristics and mechanisms of MNPs-induced cellular senescence, and potential therapeutic interventions to counteract these effects. We aim to provide state-of-the-art information on the mechanism of MNPs-induced cellular senescence and preventive and curative measures, thereby stimulating future research to minimize the health hazards of their exposure.