Khaberni - A recent study warns that the consumption of microplastic particles may cause brain inflammation and exacerbate neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
The study, conducted by scientists from the University of Technology Sydney and Auburn University in the United States, concluded that humans ingest about 250 grams of these particles annually, which is equivalent to the size of a full dinner plate.
The research team identified five ways in which microplastics — found in processed foods and drinks, contaminated seafood, tea bags, salt, dust, soil, and synthetic fibers — lead to brain issues, namely:
Disruption of the blood-brain barrier
Kamal Dev, an associate professor at the University of Sydney and co-author of the study, said: "Microplastics weaken the blood-brain barrier. When this happens, immune cells and inflammatory molecules are activated, increasing damage to the barrier's cells."
Stimulation of the immune system
With the disruption of the blood-brain barrier, the body treats microplastics as foreign bodies, leading to the immune brain cells attacking them, according to Professor Dev.
Generation of oxidative stress
The particles increase unstable molecules or "reactive oxygen species," which cause cellular damage and weaken the body's antioxidant systems, which typically regulate these particles.
Weakening of mitochondria
Dova explained: "Microplastics interfere with the mitochondria's energy production, reducing the production of 'adenosine triphosphate' (ATP), which is the fuel for cells." (Mitochondria produce about 90% of the energy needed by the body).
Impact on neural cells
Mitochondrial dysfunction weakens brain cells. Dova said: "The lack of energy reduces the activity of neural cells, which can ultimately lead to their damage, and all these pathways interact to increase the damage in the brain."
The study also explored how microplastics might contribute to the accumulation of beta-amyloid and tau proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Despite the need for further studies to prove a direct link, the current evidence recommends reducing exposure to plastics.
Dr. Keshav Raj Poudel, co-author of the study, said: "We need to reduce the use of plastics in our daily lives: avoid plastic containers and cutting boards, use natural fibers instead of synthetic ones, and consume less processed and packaged foods."
The study was published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Molecular Biochemistry and Cellular Chemistry.
