Micro- and nanoplastics in pediatric health: from placental transfer to neurodevelopmental outcomes

Micro- and Nano plastic (MNP) contamination is an emerging environmental health concern with potential implications for pediatric health. Due to developmental susceptibility and higher relative exposure, fetuses, infants, and young children may be particularly vulnerable to MNP-related toxicity.

This narrative review integrates evidence from animal models, human biomonitoring, and mechanistic studies to evaluate prenatal and early-life exposure pathways and potential neurodevelopmental consequences of MNPs. The synthesis addresses placental transfer, postnatal ingestion, inhalation, dermal exposure, and advances in analytical techniques for detection of biomarkers.

Human studies demonstrate the presence of microplastics in the placenta, amniotic fluid, cord blood, and feces, supporting transplacental and early-life exposure. Experimental evidence indicates that nanoplastics can cross biological barriers and may induce oxidative stress, inflammation, endocrine disruption, and altered neurotransmitter signaling. Animal studies consistently show structural and behavioral neurodevelopmental changes following early-life exposure. Emerging epidemiological data suggest associations between urinary microplastic markers and behavioral or cognitive outcomes in children, although causality remains unestablished.

Current evidence indicates that children are exposed to MNPs during critical developmental windows, with biologically plausible mechanisms linking exposure to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Longitudinal human studies and child-specific dose-response data are urgently needed to inform risk assessment and guide public health strategies.

Children represent a uniquely vulnerable population to microplastic and nanoplastic exposure, beginning with placental transfer and continuing through ingestion and inhalation in early life. Our findings highlight the urgent need for standardized detection methods for microplastic exposure and longitudinal studies in children linking exposure to neurodevelopmental outcomes. Protecting children from micro- and nanoplastic toxicity represents public health priority for future generations.