Micro- and nanoplastics in the body are passed on during cell division

The gastrointestinal tract is already known to researchers as a major storage site for microand nanoplastic particles (MNPs) in the human body. A research consortium consisting of the University of Vienna, the Medical University of Vienna and other partners under the leadership of CBmed GmbH in Graz has now investigated the effects of the tiny plastic particles on cancer cells in the human gastrointestinal tract. The study showed that MNPs remain in the cell for much longer than previously assumed, as they are passed on to the newly formed cell during cell division. The first indications were also discovered that the plastic particles could promote the metastasis of tumours. The results of the study were recently published in the scientific journal "Chemospheres". Besides respiration, ingestion is the most important route for MNPs into the organism. Plastic particles up to the weight of a credit card (approx. five grams) enter the gastrointestinal tract every week.