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Tiny micro- and nano-plastic particles (MNP) can enter the body through food, as is well known, and even into the brain. How these particles cross the blood-brain barrier has been shown for the first time in a research study at MedUni Vienna. The study, published in the journal Nanomaterials, provides the basis for further research to protect humans and the environment, the university announced on Friday.
The study was conducted in animals using oral administrations of micro- and nano-plastic particles made from polystyrene, a widely used plastic in food packaging. The research team led by Lukas Kenner (Clinical Institute of Pathology at MedUni Vienna and Department of Laboratory Animal Pathology at Vetmeduni) found that tiny polystyrene particles could be detected in the brain just two hours after ingestion. Using computer models, the researchers discovered that a specific surface structure (biomolecular corona) is crucial for the passage of plastic particles into the brain.
The blood-brain barrier is an essential cellular barrier that protects the brain from invasion by pathogens or toxins. Intensive research is being conducted on the health effects of plastic particles in the body. For example, MNPs in the gastrointestinal tract have already been linked to local inflammatory and immune responses and cancer development. “In the brain, plastic particles could increase the risk of inflammation, neurological disorders or even neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s,” Kenner explained. More research is needed. However, he said.
Nanoplastics are defined as smaller than 0.001 millimeters; microplastics, at 0.001 to 5.0 millimeters, are still partially visible to the naked eye. MNP enters the food chain from packaging waste, among other sources. Not only solid food but also liquid food plays a role. According to a study, anyone who drinks the recommended 1.5 to two liters of water daily from plastic bottles ingests around 90,000 plastic particles per year in this way alone. However, those who reach for tap water can – depending on their geographical location – reduce the amount ingested to 40,000, MedUni explained.
- source: k.at/picture: Microplastic in our bodies. What does it mean for our health? (ocean-mimic.com)
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