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Microplastics as an emerging environmental pollutant potentially leading to neurodegenerative diseases

Meilin Chen1, Xiaohui Huang1, Yachen Li2

  • 1College of Basic Medical Science, Hengyan0g Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.

Neuroscience
|May 5, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Microplastics (MPs) contaminate the environment and can enter the human brain, potentially causing neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Adapting environmental cleanup technologies may help prevent and manage these conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Neuroscience
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Microplastics (MPs), plastic particles <5 mm, are pervasive environmental pollutants.
  • MPs can enter the human body via inhalation, ingestion, dermal contact, and blood.
  • MPs have been detected in the central nervous system (CNS), raising concerns about neurotoxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review MP distribution, human exposure routes, and CNS entry.
  • To explore factors influencing MP neurotoxicity and mechanisms of MP-induced neurodegenerative diseases (NDs).
  • To propose adapting environmental MP detection/removal technologies for CNS applications.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on MPs and neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Analysis of environmental distribution, human exposure pathways, and CNS penetration of MPs.
  • Exploration of neurotoxicological mechanisms and potential therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

  • MPs are found globally and can cross the blood-brain barrier.
  • MPs are implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS.
  • Specific intrinsic factors exacerbate MP neurotoxicity.

Conclusions:

  • MP accumulation in the CNS is a significant risk factor for NDs.
  • Understanding MP neurotoxicity mechanisms is crucial for prevention and management.
  • Environmental MP detection and removal technologies offer novel therapeutic avenues for CNS conditions.
Keywords:
Alzheimer’s diseaseCentral nervous systemMicroplasticsNeuroinflammationParkinson’s disease

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