Effect of micro- and nanoplastic particles on human macrophages

This podcast describes a study investigating the effects of polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) on human macrophages. The study, published here, examines the uptake of MNPs by macrophages derived from both a cell line (THP-1) and primary human cells (peripheral blood mononuclear cells, PBMCs). The researchers used transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and live cell imaging to visualize MNP uptake. They also assessed the impact of MNP exposure on macrophage metabolic activity, cytotoxicity, polarization, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The study highlights the concentration-dependent uptake of MNPs and their ability to induce cytotoxicity and increase nitric oxide production in macrophages. The results emphasize the importance of further research to understand the potential health risks associated with plastic pollution in humans. Details:Effect of micro- and nanoplastic particles on human macrophagesMaike Y Adler , Insaf Issoual, Michael Rückert, Lisa Deloch, Carola Meier, Thomas Tschernig, Christoph Alexiou, Felix Pfister, Anja Frm Ramsperger, Christian Laforsch, Udo S Gaipl, Katharina Jüngert, Friedrich Paulsen J Hazard Mater. 2024 Jun 5:471:134