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    • Microplastics in Human Blood: Cardiovascular Risk

    By on May 16, 2024
    Microplastics in Human Blood: Cardiovascular Risk
    Study: Microplastics in human blood: Polymer types, concentrations and characterisation using μFTIR

    An investigation disclosed in the esteemed journal “Environment International” unveils minute remnants of microplastics within the bloodstream of humans. The configurations and dimensions of these polymers evoke profound apprehension regarding the potential peril of encountering cardiovascular complications.

    Context

    Microplastics, synthetic particles derived from plastics, pervade various ecosystems, encompassing air, water, soil, and the intricate food web. Initially crafted for commercial purposes, primary microplastics undergo a natural process of degradation, yielding secondary microplastics.

    Recent findings underscore the widespread presence of microplastics in human anatomy, spanning tissues and organs such as the lungs, colon, liver, placenta, breast milk, veins, and testes. The ingress of microplastics into the bloodstream occurs primarily through inhalation and ingestion.

    The morphology and dimensions of microplastics serve as pivotal determinants of their potential health ramifications, encompassing inflammation, oxidative stress, barrier disruption, genetic instability, reproductive ailments, developmental and endocrine disorders, coagulation disorders, and cardiovascular adversities.

    This investigation delves into the spectrum of microplastic polymers encountered in human blood, employing the sophisticated micro-Fourier Transform Interferometer (μFTIR) microscopy technique to ascertain their structure and size.

    Significant Findings

    This study enlisted the participation of 20 individuals in robust health. Blood specimens procured from them underwent meticulous analysis, revealing the presence of 24 distinct polymer types in 90% of the cohort. Employing the Limit of Quantitation (LOQ) criterion led to the identification of microplastics in 40% of the subjects.

    Among the array of 24 polymers delineated, five surpassed the LOQ threshold, namely polyethylene (PE), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), ethylene–vinyl acetate/ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVA/EVOH), polyamide (PA), and ethylene–vinyl acetate (EVA).

    The samples exhibited variability in polymer types and concentrations, with a single sample showcasing up to three polymer varieties. Polyethylene emerged as the most prevalent polymer type, succeeded by EVA/EVOH, EPDM, PA, and EVA.

    The highest concentrations of PE, EVA/EVOH, EPDM, PA, and EVA in a single sample were estimated at 4.65 μg/mL, 1.84 μg/mL, 2.22 μg/mL, 1.84 μg/mL, and 0.61 μg/mL, respectively.

    Analysis of Microplastic Polymers

    Predominantly present in blood samples were polymers such as PE, EVA/EVOH, and EPDM, constituting over half of all identified polymer species. The mean length and width of discerned microplastic particles were 127.99 ± 293.26 µm and 57.88 ± 88.89 µm, respectively.

    Approximately 88% of microplastics were designated as fragments, with 79% exhibiting a white or transparent hue. Nevertheless, a significant proportion of fragments displayed varying colors within blood samples.

    An array of additive substances or substitutes for plastics were detected within microplastic polymers extracted from blood samples.

    Among these identified additives, phthalates and tri (n-octyl, n-decyl) trimellitate were discerned in 20% and 25% of blood samples, respectively. Additional additives, including reacted alpha-olefin, trilauryl trithiophosphite, phosphate ester polyolefin, and 1,4-difluorobenzene-D4, were found in solitary samples.

    Furthermore, another additive, 1-decanol, was detected in 60% of blood samples. Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), an alternative bacterial thermoplastic, biodegradable polyester, was identified in 20% of blood samples.

    Significance of the Study

    The investigation delineates 24 distinct polymer varieties of microplastics in human blood samples, with polyethylene, ethylene propylene diene, and ethylene–vinyl-acetate/alcohol emerging as the most prevalent.

    Polyethylene, renowned for its ubiquitous presence in packaging film, bags, bottles, and household items, alongside its usage in medical implants, has been previously detected in human lung tissues and breast milk. Scientific inquiries have correlated polyethylene exposure with heightened genetic instability.

    Ethylene propylene diene, utilized in automotive manufacturing and artificial turfs, has recently been uncovered in air samples collected from the rubber industry, yet its presence within human tissues remains unconfirmed.

    Similarly, ethylene–vinyl-acetate/alcohol, commonly employed in food packaging, agricultural film, and automotive applications, has been identified in human urine samples.

    The microplastic particles unearthed in this study exhibit distinctive shapes and larger dimensions compared to their predecessors. Owing to their notable flexibility, these larger particles possess the potential to navigate small-diameter blood capillaries. However, their traversal through these vessels may be gradual, fostering prolonged interactions with blood proteins.

    The interplay between microplastics and blood proteins engenders the formation of a protective corona, impeding the immune system’s recognition of microplastics and prolonging their residence within the body.

    Moreover, microplastics endowed with non-linear structures may impede blood flow within capillaries, thereby altering local oxygen concentrations and collectively influencing cellular metabolism and functions.

    In summation, these findings underscore the imperative for future investigations to delve into the potential toxicological ramifications of microplastics on human health.

    For more information: Microplastics in human blood: Polymer types, concentrations and characterisation using μFTIR, Environment International, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2024.108751

    Driven by a deep passion for healthcare, Haritha is a dedicated medical content writer with a knack for transforming complex concepts into accessible, engaging narratives. With extensive writing experience, she brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity to every piece, empowering readers with valuable insights into the world of medicine.

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