An analytical study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition showed that plastic nanoparticles that enter the body affect metabolism, the intestines, and the liver.
The researchers analyzed data from 1,700 research papers and studies related to plastic nanoparticles and their impact on health. The data showed that these particles disrupt the balance of gut bacteria composition and weaken the intestinal barrier. This allows inflammatory molecules and bacterial waste to enter the body more easily, increasing systemic inflammation, increasing insulin resistance, and causing metabolic disturbances.
Scientists have also discovered another mechanism by which these particles affect the body, related to oxidative stress. They found that microplastic particles activate reactive oxygen species in the body, damage cells, and disrupt mitochondrial function, which may affect energy metabolism and cause disturbances in glucose and fat processing.
The researchers focused their study on the "gut-liver" axis. The damage caused by plastic nanoparticles to gut microbes and the resulting inflammation negatively impact liver health and fat metabolism, and increase the likelihood of developing fatty liver disease.
Scientists emphasize that the evidence regarding the impact of microplastics on human health is still insufficient, as most studies on this matter rely on experiments conducted on laboratory animals.
