The distribution of microplastics and nanoplastics in the environment, the potential of human exposure and particle uptake, and the absorption of these particles into tissues are topics that are b .
More and more studies worldwide are looking into the effects of microplastics, especially with regard to the environment and health. They often use spherical polystyrene microparticles and have ar .
New European research network addresses the effects of plastic particles on human health
Researching the effects of plastic particles on the human body and developing a health policy strategy for assessing the resulting risks is the goal of the new European research network PlasticsFatE. The University of Bayreuth, together with 26 other universities, institutes, and organizations from ten EU member states, is participating in the project.
The European Union is funding the four-year project to the tune of € 6 million, with the University of Bayreuth receiving more than € 465,000. The project was launched on 28 April 2021 at a virtual kick-off event for its partners.
Microplastic particles find their way into living cells if exposed to natural aquatic environments
The environment is polluted by microplastics worldwide. The tiny particles enter food chains, and thereby the digestive systems of animals and humans; moreover, they can be inhaled. Instead of being excreted, small microplastics can be incorporated into the body tissue.
A research team at the University of Bayreuth has now discovered that microplastic particles find their way into living cells more easily if they were exposed to natural aquatic environments, i.e. fresh water and seawater.
Biomolecules occurring in the water are deposited on the microplastic surfaces, which promote the internalization of the particles into cells. The researchers present their results in