Frontiers in Neurology, Год журнала: 2025, Номер 16

Опубликована: Май 30, 2025

Recent advances in dementia research have expanded our understanding of modifiable risk factors, with air pollution being a well-established contributor. However, microplastics—plastic particles smaller than 5 mm—represent an understudied component environmental that may significantly impact neurological health. This review examines emerging evidence linking chronic microplastic exposure to increased risk. Microplastics enter the human body through multiple routes, including ingestion contaminated food and water, inhalation, dermal absorption, demonstrated ability cross blood–brain barrier initiate several pathogenic pathways. Four primary mechanisms appear mediate microplastic-induced neurodegeneration: oxidative stress reactive oxygen species (ROS) production; neuroinflammation via microglial activation inflammatory responses; neurotoxicity from transported persistent organic pollutants (POPs) heavy metals; accelerated amyloid-beta pathology enhanced Aβ40 Aβ42 nucleation. bioaccumulation studies revealed elevated concentrations brains patients compared non-dementia controls, supporting potential dose-dependent relationship. Sources microplastics include industrial waste, synthetic textiles, plastic degradation products, tire wear particles, creating ubiquitous air, food, water. While preliminary supports mechanistic link between neurodegeneration, comprehensive epidemiological larger datasets are needed quantify this relationship establish dose–response patterns. Future should focus on identifying which types pose greatest risks, determining threshold levels, developing interventions mitigate exposure.

Язык: Английский