New research suggests microplastics accumulating in the body can disrupt the immune system. Studies in mice and lab dishes show these particles prevent immune cells, specifically macrophages, from engulfing microbes and clearing dead cells. This "clogging" effect impairs the macrophages' critical functions.
Microplastics, tiny fragments from plastic products, are known to accumulate in the body. This new study highlights their impact on macrophages, which are responsible for destroying harmful pathogens and cellular waste. Scientists observed that cells ingesting microplastics struggled to perform these essential tasks. The research, led by immunologist Justin Perry at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, focused on polystyrene, a common plastic. Experiments showed that when macrophages took up microplastics, their ability to engulf and break down dead cells or infectious microbes was significantly reduced.
In one experiment, mice exposed to microplastics showed a diminished capacity to clear a fungal infection in their lungs, experiencing more severe disease. While these findings are concerning, experts caution that direct public health evidence linking microplastic exposure to increased infections in humans is still lacking. The accumulation of dead cell material due to impaired macrophage function could also trigger inflammation and potentially autoimmune disorders. Furthermore, early research suggests microplastics may reduce fertility, as indicated by decreased sperm counts in male mice exposed to the particles.