Sentinel Digital Desk
A study in Nature Medicine found that the human brain may hold a spoonful of nanoplastics. Researchers discovered "unbelievable" levels of microplastics and nanoplastics in brain samples from early 2024 autopsies.
According to their findings, researchers discovered that microplastics in cadaver brain samples increased over time, with brain tissue containing 7 to 30 times more plastic particles than the kidneys or liver.
Researchers discovered 4,800 micrograms of microplastics per gram in brain tissue from people aged 45-50, equivalent to 0.48% by weight and about the size of a plastic spoon, said co-lead study author Matthew Campen.
Campen noted brain plastic levels are 50% higher than in 2016, meaning today's brains are 99.5% brain and 0.5% plastic. Researchers found more microplastics in the brains of people with dementia than in those without it.
Campen noted that dementia weakens the blood-brain barrier and brain clearance, allowing more plastics to accumulate due to inflammation and tissue loss. He also stressed caution, saying microplastics are likely higher due to dementia, not its cause.
Microplastics and nanoplastics are tiny plastic pieces from everyday items like packaging, clothing, and tires. They are widespread and have been found in the human body, including blood, stool, lungs, and placentas.