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Exposure to Microplastics in Biological Matrices and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Children: A Systematic Review
Francesco Fabrizio Comisi1, Andrea Maria Comisi2, Elena Esposito1
1Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy.
Nanomaterials (Basel, Switzerland)
|May 26, 2026
Summary
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) exposure in children is linked to poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, current evidence is limited, with very low certainty, and requires more independent research for confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are widespread environmental pollutants found in human tissues.
- Limited epidemiological data exists on the association between MNP exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review observational studies on MNP exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children (0-18 years).
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of six databases (PRISMA 2020 guidelines).
- Risk of bias and certainty of evidence assessed using JBI and GRADE frameworks.
- Included three observational studies (2025, China) examining behavioral, cognitive, and neurological outcomes.
Main Results:
- All included studies indicated a consistent direction of association: higher MNP exposure correlated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- Potential population overlap between two studies limits interpretation of independent replication.
- All outcomes were assessed as Very Low certainty (GRADE), precluding meta-analysis.
Conclusions:
- While experimental data suggests biological plausibility, current epidemiological evidence is insufficient to establish causality.
- The field requires independent replication and hypothesis generation.
- Future research should focus on prospective longitudinal designs, validated exposure assessment, and standardized outcome measures.
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