Microplastics block blood flow in the brain, mouse study reveals

Scientists Uncover Microplastics Impact on Blood Flow in Mouse Brains

Plastic Clumps Affect Movement: A New Discovery

For the first time, researchers have observed microplastics navigating through mouse bodies in real-time. These tiny plastic particles are ingested by immune cells, travel via the bloodstream, and eventually become lodged in brain blood vessels. This obstruction could potentially influence movement, though its occurrence in humans remains uncertain, according to the researchers.

Ubiquity of Microplastics

Microplastics, defined as pieces of plastic measuring less than 5 millimeters in length, have been discovered in a range of environments, from the depths of the ocean to Antarctic ice. They infiltrate the air, water, and food consumed by humans and can enter the bloodstream through medical devices. Existing studies indicate that microplastics and nanoplastics have infiltrated human organs, yet the health implications remain under investigation.

Pioneering Study Using Advanced Imaging

In a study published in Science Advances, Haipeng Huang and colleagues from Peking University explored the effects of microplastics on the brain using miniature two-photon microscopy. This imaging technique allowed them to trace microplastics in mouse brains through a surgically implanted transparent window in the skull. The imaging revealed that immune cells, notably neutrophils and phagocytes, consumed the fluorescent plastic specks, leading to potential clogging in brain blood vessels.

Research Methodology

Mice were given water containing fluorescent polystyrene spheres. Three hours later, the imaging showed fluorescent cells, indicating that they had ingested the plastic. The clumped plastic-laden cells blocked tiny blood vessels, akin to a “car crash.” Some obstructions dissolved over time, while others remained throughout the four-week study period. Intravenous injections of plastic spheres showed immediate effects, with smaller particles causing fewer blockages.

Despite these findings, more research is necessary to determine the impact of microplastics on human health. The study illuminates potential risks but does not yet establish a clear connection to human physiological effects.