HUMAN EXPOSURE TO MICROPLASTICS: TOXICOLOGICAL MECHANISMS AND POTENTIAL HEALTH IMPLICATIONS - A NARRATIVE REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5213Keywords:
Microplastics, Nanoplastics, Toxicology, Environmental PollutionAbstract
Introduction: Microplastics represent an increasingly widespread environmental contaminant detected in water, food, and ambient air. In recent years, microplastic particles have also been identified in human biological materials, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health.
Objective: The aim of this review was to summarize current evidence regarding the main routes of human exposure to microplastics, the mechanisms underlying their potential toxicity, and the possible health consequences associated with exposure.
Materials and Methods: A review of the most recent scientific literature available in major medical databases was conducted, with particular emphasis on experimental studies, systematic reviews, and publications reporting the presence of microplastics in the human body.
Results: The primary exposure routes include ingestion of contaminated food and water, as well as inhalation of airborne particles and household dust. Experimental studies suggest that micro- and nanoplastics may induce oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and cellular dysfunction. Plastic particles may also act as vectors for other chemical contaminants and potentially interfere with endocrine regulation. The most frequently discussed health effects involve the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and reproductive systems, as well as metabolic disturbances. However, the majority of currently available evidence is derived from in vitro studies and animal models.
Conclusions: Despite the presence of biologically plausible mechanisms of toxicity, there is currently no conclusive clinical evidence establishing a direct association between microplastic exposure and specific human diseases. Further epidemiological studies and standardization of analytical methods for detecting microplastics in biological samples are required to enable a reliable assessment of health risks.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Maria Kubacka, Idalia Myszor, Michał Madej, Lucjan Kocemba, Gabriela Mroczka, Sylwia Nycz-Jucha, Paulina Łobaza, Brygida Pinkowicz, Piotr Rachwał, Barbara Nowak-Misiąg
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