Microplastics Found in Human Brains: Study Reveals Disturbing Accumulation

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A recent study published in the journal Nature has detected alarming levels of microplastics in human brain samples, revealing concentrations seven to 30 times higher than in the liver or kidneys. Researchers analyzed brain samples from cadavers dating from 2016 to 2024 and observed a significant rise in microplastic content, attributed to increased plastic exposure in recent years. According to Matthew J. Campbell, lead author and biologist at the New Mexico Center for Metals, while the findings are concerning, the absence of higher concentrations of nanoplastics in older adults suggests potential elimination over time.

Microplastics, tiny particles resulting from larger plastic waste degradation, are increasingly prevalent due to rising global plastic production, which doubled to 460 million tons between 2000 and 2019. The environmental impact is profound, with over 22% of produced plastic accumulating improperly and entering the food chain. Eva Jiménez-Guri from the University of Exeter emphasizes the importance of understanding both the concentrations and locations of plastic in the body. However, some experts, including Roberto Rosal from the University of Alcalá, express skepticism about the study’s findings, citing potential contamination issues.

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