Alarming Microplastics Found in Human Brains

Microplastics are omnipresent, wreaking havoc on the environment and infiltrating our bodies, including the brain. A new preprint study, not yet peer-reviewed, raises concerns about the extent of microplastics in the human brain and potential health risks.

The study analyzed 51 brain tissue samples from individuals who died in 2016 or 2024. These samples were almost evenly split between males and females, with an average age of 50 years for the 2016 cohort and 52.3 years for the 2024 cohort.

Microplastics, ranging from 500 micrometers to 1 nanometer, can cross the blood-brain barrier within two hours. As plastic products permeate daily life, humans chronically exposed to these minute particles, which are invisible to the naked eye. Detecting them in tissues is challenging due to their size.

Researchers from the University of New Mexico chemically analyzed brain samples for 12 plastic polymers, including PVC, polystyrene, and polyethylene, using transmission electron microscopy. They observed numerous particles resembling microplastics based on size and shape.

The study revealed significantly higher concentrations of microplastics in brain samples compared to liver and kidney tissues. Some 2024 samples contained nearly 0.5% microplastics by weight, which Dr. Matthew Campen described as “pretty alarming.”

While previous animal studies suggest that microplastics in the brain may cause behavioral changes and inflammation, the effects on humans are still unknown. As microplastic levels appear to be rising, experts recommend reducing plastic exposure and waste to mitigate potential risks.

Read the Original Article IFL SCIENCE

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