Impact of microplastics on the human digestive system: From basic to clinical
Ya‐Fen Wang, Xinyi Wang, Bangjie Chen, Yi-Pin Yang, Hao Li, Fan Wang
Abstract
As a new type of pollutant, the harm caused by microplastics (MPs) to organisms has been the research focus. Recently, the proportion of MPs ingested through the digestive tract has gradually increased with the popularity of fast-food products, such as takeout. The damage to the digestive system has attracted increasing attention. We reviewed the literature regarding toxicity of MPs and observed that they have different effects on multiple organs of the digestive system. The mechanism may be related to the toxic effects of MPs themselves, interactions with various substances in the biological body, and participation in various signaling pathways to induce adverse reactions as a carrier of toxins to increase the time and amount of body absorption. Based on the toxicity mechanism of MPs, we propose specific suggestions to provide a theoretical reference for the government and relevant departments.