Study of the toxicological effects of nanoplastics on colon cells

Abstract

Plastic waste represents a threat to the environment, not only because of its accumulation and contamination, but also because of the constant degradation it undergoes, leading to its transformation into micro and nanoplastics (MNPLs). The size range of MNPLs makes it easier for them to cross the barriers of organisms, that is, the natural mechanisms that protect the organism from the entry of harmful substances or pathogens, becoming a potential risk factor for human health due to its relatively unknown effects. Human absorption of nanoplastics can occur unintentionally through the food chain through consumption of contaminated food and beverages or possibly through migration of nanoplastic particles from packaging materials to food products, then it is a concern that requires reliable data to assess its safety. In this review, we focus on the literature on research studies in which the effects of MNPLs on colon epithelial cells have been evaluated. These works have evaluated the danger of MNPLs through tests of cell viability, membrane integrity, localization and translocation of MNPs, induction of reactive oxygen species and genotoxic damage to have a comprehensive view of their potentially harmful effects. Most of the plastics produced by the industry are composed of different types of polymers, and given the technological limitation to obtain environmental samples, we work mainly with models of synthesized micro and nanoplastic particles.