Environmental Micro-Nanoplastics and Musculoskeletal Disorders: Current Research and Insights

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Skeletal Biology

Background:

• Micro-nanoplastics are pervasive environmental pollutants entering the human body through various routes.
• They distribute widely in tissues, including bone, raising concerns about skeletal health.
• Skeletal homeostasis is crucial for mechanical support, metabolic balance, and immune function, and its disruption leads to musculoskeletal diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the sources, exposure pathways, and toxic effects of micro-nanoplastics on the human skeletal system.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which micro-nanoplastics induce skeletal diseases.
• To summarize detection methods, research limitations, and future directions for micro-nanoplastic-associated skeletal health.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of micro-nanoplastics' impact on skeletal tissues.
• Analysis of mechanisms including inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and epigenetic regulation.
• Review of detection techniques and research gaps in skeletal micro-nanoplastic studies.

Main Results:

• Micro-nanoplastics accumulate in bone, cartilage, and bone marrow, disrupting skeletal homeostasis.
• They contribute to diseases like osteoporosis, arthritis, and disc degeneration through multiple toxic pathways.
• Evidence links micro-nanoplastics to osteosarcoma progression and lupus-related bone lesions.

Conclusions:

• Micro-nanoplastics pose a significant threat to skeletal health, contributing to diverse musculoskeletal diseases.
• Understanding their molecular mechanisms is key for risk assessment and clinical intervention.
• Further research and environmental controls are needed to mitigate micro-nanoplastic-induced skeletal damage.