Microplastics can harm the brain

Today, more than 57 million people are living with dementia, and this number is expected to increase dramatically. Against the background of such forecasts, the role of microplastics is seriously alarming. According to Professor Kamal Dua, an adult consumes about 250 grams of microplastics annually — almost a quarter of a kilogram, which enters the body with food, drinks and even air. These particles are found in seafood, salt, packaged foods, tea bags, water in plastic bottles, vegetables grown in polluted soil, and even in household dust and synthetic clothing. Although some of the particles are removed, studies confirm that microplastics accumulate in internal organs, including the brain.

Microplastic is able to penetrate the blood—brain barrier, the protective filter of the brain. Moreover, the particles make it more leaky, which increases inflammation and allows harmful molecules to enter the brain tissue. In response, the immune cells of the brain begin to attack the microplastic as a foreign object, which only increases the damage.

It is noted that microplastics enhance oxidative stress, a condition in which aggressive molecules accumulate in the brain that can destroy cells. At the same time, the natural antioxidant mechanisms that should protect the tissues weaken. Another harmful effect is associated with mitochondria: microplastics disrupt their ability to produce energy, which leads to a lack of ATP fuel for cells, including neurons. As a result, the activity of nerve cells decreases, and they become more vulnerable to damage.

Such processes echo what is observed in neurodegenerative diseases. The study shows that microplastics can enhance the accumulation of beta-amyloid and tau protein in Alzheimer’s disease, and in Parkinson’s disease, promote the aggregation of α—synuclein and damage dopamine neurons. Although there is no direct evidence of a causal relationship yet, this relationship is of increasing concern.

Scientists continue to study how microplastics behave in the body, including the lungs and other organs. The authors of the study say that it is possible to reduce the impact of microplastics right now: avoid plastic containers and cutting boards, choose natural fabrics, reduce the use of dryers and buy processed products less often.