Riya Baibhawi

Human Brains Are Increasingly Accommodating Plastic: Study

Microplastics

Human brains are accumulating more <span>microplastics</span> than eight years ago, recent research has shown. A preprint study posted online in May 2024 reveals that brain samples collected from autopsies in early 2024 contained about 50% more tiny plastic shards than those from 2016. Lead author Matthew Campen, a regents’ professor of pharmaceutical sciences at the University of New Mexico, reported that these samples had concentrations of 4,800 micrograms of plastic per gram of brain tissue.

While this data underscores increased exposure, it does not yet clarify the health implications. Phoebe Stapleton, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Rutgers University, emphasizes that the study highlights exposure but not necessarily damage. The research team observed that brain samples had 7% to 30% more plastic shards than kidneys and livers, suggesting that <span>nanoplastics</span> may preferentially accumulate in the brain, possibly due to its high-fat content.

Nanoplastics, which are smaller than 1 nanometer, are particularly concerning because they can penetrate cellular structures and cross the blood-brain barrier. They might enter the brain by hitching a ride with dietary fats, according to Campen. Although plastics are found in various organs, including the heart, lungs, and placenta, their full impact on brain health remains unclear.

Dr Philip Landrigan from Boston College, who was not involved in the study, points out that while avoiding plastics entirely is impossible, reducing exposure is crucial. He advises minimizing the use of plastic bags, bottles, and containers, and opting for alternatives like glass or metal. A recent study found that bottled water often contains high levels of microplastics, further highlighting the need for caution.

The study also notes that polyethene, a common plastic, was predominantly found in brain tissues. This plastic type is linked to environmental and health risks, including cancer. Experts stress the importance of further research to fully understand the implications of these findings and advocate for reducing plastic usage to mitigate potential health risks.

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Human brains are accumulating more microplastics than eight years ago, recent research has shown. A preprint study posted online in May 2024 reveals that brain samples collected from autopsies in early 2024 contained about 50% more tiny plastic shards than those from 2016. Lead author Matthew Campen, a regents’ professor of pharmaceutical sciences at the University of New Mexico, reported that these samples had concentrations of 4,800 micrograms of plastic per gram of brain tissue.While this data underscores increased exposure, it does not yet clarify the health implications. Phoebe Stapleton, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Rutgers University, emphasizes that the study highlights exposure but not necessarily damage. The research team observed that brain samples had 7% to 30% more plastic shards than kidneys and livers, suggesting that nanoplastics may preferentially accumulate in the brain, possibly due to its high-fat content.Nanoplastics, which are smaller than 1 nanometer, are particularly concerning because they can penetrate cellular structures and cross the blood-brain barrier. They might enter the brain by hitching a ride with dietary fats, according to Campen. Although plastics are found in various organs, including the heart, lungs, and placenta, their full impact on brain health remains unclear.Dr Philip Landrigan from Boston College, who was not involved in the study, points out that while avoiding plastics entirely is impossible, reducing exposure is crucial. He advises minimizing the use of plastic bags, bottles, and containers, and opting for alternatives like glass or metal. A recent study found that bottled water often contains high levels of microplastics, further highlighting the need for caution.The study also notes that polyethene, a common plastic, was predominantly found in brain tissues. This plastic type is linked to environmental and health risks, including cancer. Experts stress the importance of further research to fully understand the implications of these findings and advocate for reducing plastic usage to mitigate potential health risks.

human brains are increasingly accomodating plastic: study

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