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The Gut Microbiome in Foodborne Microplastic Toxicity: Mechanistic Insights and Human Health Risk Assessment
Mohd Zobair Iqbal1, Pratishtha Sharma1, Zaryab Shafi2
1Department of Environmental Microbiology, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Journal of Applied Toxicology : JAT
|August 7, 2026
Summary
Microplastics (MPs) in food disrupt gut health by altering the microbiome. This leads to intestinal dysfunction and potential systemic toxicity, highlighting the need for further research into exposure risks.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly recognized as foodborne contaminants.
- Their impact on gastrointestinal health and the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.
- This limits comprehensive human health risk assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on foodborne MPs, exposure, and their gastrointestinal fate.
- To examine mechanisms linking MP exposure to gut dysbiosis and intestinal dysfunction.
- To identify knowledge gaps for future research.
Main Methods:
- Literature synthesis of existing research on foodborne MPs.
- Analysis of physicochemical properties influencing MP fate and toxicity.
- Examination of molecular and microbiome-mediated mechanisms.
Main Results:
- MP exposure is linked to intestinal dysbiosis, barrier dysfunction, oxidative stress, and immune activation.
- MPs can act as vectors for co-contaminants, amplifying toxicity.
- Gut microbiome dysregulation is a key driver of MP-induced intestinal and systemic toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Gut microbiome dysregulation is a critical mechanism in foodborne MP-induced toxicity.
- Further research is needed on MP mechanisms, exposure, and health risks.
- Advances in dynamic colon simulation and multi-omics aid in understanding MP toxicity.
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