Microplastics and nanoplastics in human toxicity: ROS-mediated mechanisms, cellular damage and systemic effects

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants.
• Their small size and reactivity facilitate cellular uptake and organelle accumulation.
• MPs and NPs pose significant risks to human health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the sources, cellular uptake, and toxicological effects of MPs and NPs.
• To elucidate the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated mechanisms underlying MP and NP toxicity.
• To consolidate understanding of multi-organ toxicological impacts and co-contaminant vector effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research on microplastic and nanoplastic toxicity.
• Analysis of cellular and molecular mechanisms of MP and NP interactions.
• Synthesis of toxicological data across multiple organ systems.

Main Results:

• MPs and NPs accumulate in cellular organelles, inducing ROS overproduction.
• ROS disrupts mitochondrial function, DNA integrity, and signaling pathways (MAPK, PI3K/Akt, NF-κB, p53, TGF-β).
• Exposure leads to apoptosis, autophagy, inflammation, genotoxicity, and systemic toxicity including hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and neurotoxicity.

Conclusions:

• MPs and NPs induce cellular damage and multi-organ toxicity via ROS-mediated pathways.
• They act as vectors for co-contaminants, enhancing overall toxicity.
• Further research is needed to fully understand and mitigate the health risks associated with these widespread pollutants.