Plastic particles found in the brain two hours after a meal !

Plastic particles are likely to increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's diseases.

This is not new : plastics have become an integral part of our lives. So much so that nanoplastics have already been found in the blood, lungs and placenta. These can enter our body through the food and liquids we consume. More worryingly, a new study by a team of Austrian, American, Hungarian and Dutch researchers and published in the journal Nanomaterials has found that plastic particles can reach the brain just hours after being consumed, possibly thanks to the how other chemicals adhere to their surface.

Only two hours to reach the brain

"In the brain, plastic particles could increase the risk of inflammation, neurological disorders or even neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's," says Lukas Kenner, a pathologist at the Medical University of Vienna and co-lead author of the study. To reach this conclusion, the researchers administered tiny fragments of nanoplastics orally to mice. These were then detected in their brains in just two hours.

But how do plastic fragments manage to cross the blood-brain barrier, which is supposed to protect the brain ? To verify that the particles can actually enter the brain, polystyrene nanoparticles of three sizes (9.5, 1.14, and 0.293 micrometers) were labeled with fluorescent markers and pretreated in a mixture similar to digestive fluid before be given to mice. "To our surprise, we found specific nanometer-sized green fluorescent signals in the brain tissue of exposed mice after only two hours," the researchers write in the paper, which state: "Only particles of 0.293 micrometers could be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and penetrate the blood-brain barrier".

"Limit exposure" to plastic nanoparticles

The crossing of cellular barriers in the body by these tiny plastics is complex and depends on factors such as particle size, charge and cell type. The simulations showed that particles with a protein crown could not cross the barrier. In contrast, those with a cholesterol crown could pass, although they could not penetrate deeper into brain tissue.

The findings raise the possibility that plastic could be transported across the membrane and into brain tissue with the help of the right molecular cocktail. Note, however, that these results are based on mice and computer simulations, so it is not certain that the same occurs in humans. It is also not known what the necessary threshold of plastic particles is to cause damage. “To minimize the potential harm of plastic micro and nanoparticles to humans and the environment, it is essential to limit exposure and restrict their use while further research is carried out into the effects of MNPs,” emphasizes Lukas. Kenner.

Some alternatives to plastic

Bioplastics : Bioplastics are made from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, and vegetable fats and oils. They are biodegradable and compostable, making them a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic.

Stainless steel : Stainless steel is a durable and long-lasting alternative to plastic. It can be used for water bottles, food containers, and other household items.

Glass : Glass is another durable and long-lasting alternative to plastic. It can be used for food storage containers, drinking glasses, and other household items.

Bamboo : Bamboo is a renewable resource that can be used to make a variety of household items, including utensils, cutting boards, and food storage containers.

Natural fiber cloth : Natural fiber cloth, such as cotton or hemp, can be used as an alternative to plastic bags or packaging.

Beeswax-coated cloth : Beeswax-coated cloth can be used as an alternative to plastic wrap for food storage.

Wood : Wood can be used to make a variety of household items, including utensils, cutting boards, and food storage containers.

Pottery and other ceramics : Pottery and other ceramics can be used as an alternative to plastic plates, bowls, and cups.

It's important to keep in mind that anything you buy has an environmental footprint. Though longer lasting than plastic, things made from glass, metal, and so on still take energy to make and transport. For these swaps to make sense, you need to use them over and over again.