At the speed of new discoveries, microplastics must become a source of problems for animals and humans exposed to this almost ubiquitous material. Now, Austrian researchers have found that these tiny plastic fragments can make their way into the brains of adult rodents two hours after ingestion, where they increase the risk of inflammation.
Published in scientific journal Nanomaterialsthe research that identified the ability of plastic nanoparticles to break the blood-brain barrier and, as a consequence, invade the brain was developed by scientists at the University of Vienna, Austria.
Here, the interesting thing is that the discovery is not unprecedented, when analyzing the brain of rodents. Previously, Chinese researchers found that microplastic particles can reach the brain of fetuses. However, the fact that two different studies indicate similar evidence only reinforces the risk that, in theory, the material represents to health.
Another important observation: ingesting micro or nanoplastics is not uncommon. In fact, it’s more common than you might think, as fragments can easily get into the body through food, including those wrapped in plastic. Even water bottles can contribute to this type of exposure.
What is the impact of microplastics on the brain?
In the Austrian study, researchers specifically looked at the risk of polystyrene (PS) invasion of the brain. This material is present in disposable cups, some toys, syringes, toothbrushes and other miscellaneous items.
To understand the risk of exposure, the authors went to the extreme and literally fed six rodents an aqueous solution containing nanoplastic particles. After a period of two or four hours, the guinea pigs were killed and the brains sent for analysis.
At this point, the researchers found that up to two hours was all it took for the material to cross the blood-brain barrier. “In the brain, plastic particles can increase the risk of inflammation, neurological disorders or even neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s,” says Lukas Kenner, one of the study’s authors, in a statement.
It is not yet known whether the same behavior is observed in humans or what quantity of plastic particles would be necessary for cerebral intoxication. These possible developments will only be revealed in further studies.
Microplastics affect animal and human health
If complications in the brain are not well established, the case is different when analyzing the digestive system of animals, including the intestine. In the gastrointestinal tract, plastic fragments have been linked to inflammatory and immune reactions. Even seabirds can develop a disease associated with accidental consumption, plasticosis.
“To minimize the potential damage of micro and nanoplastic particles to humans and the environment, it is crucial to limit exposure and restrict their use while further research is carried out on their effects”, suggests scientist Kenner.
Source: Nanomaterials e University of Vienna
