A new study has found that microplastics have become a widespread problem in our intestines and other tissues.
Microplastics are found everywhere in the environment and can accumulate in our bodies over time. We consume them through food, water, and even the air we breathe.
The study used human intestinal organoids to understand the effects of microplastics on our health. The research found that microplastics can cause inflammation in the intestines, similar to inflammatory bowel disease.
Smaller plastic particles were absorbed by cells lining the intestines, while larger particles were absorbed by immune cells in the gut. When there were high concentrations of small plastic particles and the presence of immune cells, the organoids showed damage and released proteins associated with inflammation.
This provides a promising approach to studying the toxicity of microplastics and other environmental particles using human cell organoids. Understanding microplastic risks is crucial for protecting our health and finding solutions to reduce plastic pollution.