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Nair SR, Nihad M, Shenoy P S, Gupta S, Bose B. Unveiling the effects of micro and nano plastics in embryonic development. Toxicol Rep 2025; 14:101954. [PMID: 40104046 PMCID: PMC11914762 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2025.101954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2025] [Accepted: 02/05/2025] [Indexed: 03/20/2025] Open
Abstract
The improper disposal and degradation of plastics causes the formation and spread of micro and nano-sized plastic particles in the ecosystem. The widespread presence of these micro and nanoplastics leads to their accumulation in the biotic and abiotic components of the environment, thereby affecting the cellular and metabolic functions of organisms. Despite being classified as xenobiotic agents, information about their sources and exposure related to reproductive health is limited. Micro and nano plastic exposure during early developmental stages can cause abnormal embryonic development. It can trigger neurotoxicity and inflammatory responses as well in the developing embryo. In embryonic development, a comprehensive study of their role in pluripotency, gastrulation, and multi-differentiation potential is scarce. Due to ethical concerns associated with the direct use of human embryos, pluripotent cells and its 3D in vitro models (with cell lines) are an alternative source for effective research. Thus, the 3D Embryoid body (EB) model provides a platform for conducting embryotoxicity and multi-differentiation potential research. Pluripotent stem cells such as embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells derived embryoid bodies (EBs) serve as a robust 3D in vitro model that mimics characteristics similar to that of human embryos. Thus, the 3D EB model provides a platform for conducting embryotoxicity and multi-differentiation potential research. Accordingly, this review discusses the significance of 3D in vitro models in conducting effective embryotoxicity research. Further, we also evaluated the possible sources/routes of microplastic generation and analyzed their surface chemistry and cytotoxic effects reported till date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay R Nair
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Centre, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka 575018, India
| | - Muhammad Nihad
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Centre, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka 575018, India
| | - Sudheer Shenoy P
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Centre, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka 575018, India
| | - Sebanti Gupta
- Division of Data Analytics, Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka 575018, India
| | - Bipasha Bose
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Centre, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), University Road, Deralakatte, Mangalore, Karnataka 575018, India
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Sankar S, Chandrasekaran N, Meivelu Moovendhan, Parvathi VD. Zebrafish and Drosophila as Model Systems for Studying the Impact of Microplastics and Nanoplastics ‐ A Systematic Review. ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT 2025; 34. [DOI: 10.1002/tqem.70021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 12/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2025]
Abstract
ABSTRACTMicroplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are byproducts of plastics created to benefit humanity, but improper disposal and inadequate recycling have turned them into a global menace that we can no longer conceal. As they interact with all living organisms, including humans, their mechanism of interaction and their perilous impact must be meticulously investigated. To uncover the secrets of MNPs, there must be model systems that exist to interlink the two major scenarios: they must represent the environmental impact and be relevant to humans. Therefore, zebrafish and Drosophila are perfect to describe these two cases, as they are well studied and relatable to humans. In this review, 39% zebrafish studies reported higher mortality and hatching rates at greater MNP concentrations, severe oxidative stress as seen by raised malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and reduced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. About 50% of studies showed severe neurotoxic behavior with drop of locomotor activity, suggesting neurotoxicity. MNPs have a significant impact on fertility rate of Drosophila. More than half of the studies revealed genotoxicity in Drosophila as observed by wing spot assays and modified genomic expressions associated with stress and detoxification processes. These findings emphasize the potential of MNPs to bioaccumulate, impair physiological systems, and cause oxidative and neurobehavioral damage. This study underscores the importance for thorough risk evaluations of MNPs and their environmental and health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudharsan Sankar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research Chennai Tamil Nadu India
| | | | - Meivelu Moovendhan
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS) Chennai Tamil Nadu India
| | - Venkatachalam Deepa Parvathi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research Chennai Tamil Nadu India
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Deng X, Gui Y, Zhao L. The micro(nano)plastics perspective: exploring cancer development and therapy. Mol Cancer 2025; 24:30. [PMID: 39856719 PMCID: PMC11761189 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-025-02230-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2025] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Microplastics, as an emerging environmental pollutant, have received widespread attention for their potential impact on ecosystems and human health. Microplastics are defined as plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in diameter and can be categorized as primary and secondary microplastics. Primary microplastics usually originate directly from industrial production, while secondary microplastics are formed by the degradation of larger plastic items. Microplastics are capable of triggering cytotoxicity and chronic inflammation, and may promote cancer through mechanisms such as pro-inflammatory responses, oxidative stress and endocrine disruption. In addition, improved microplastics bring new perspectives to cancer therapy, and studies of microplastics as drug carriers are underway, showing potential for high targeting and bioavailability. Although current studies suggest an association between microplastics and certain cancers (e.g., lung, liver, and breast cancers), the long-term effects and specific mechanisms still need to be studied. This review aimed at exploring the carcinogenicity of microplastics and their promising applications in cancer therapy provides important directions for future research and emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary collaboration to address this global health challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangying Deng
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Hunan Clinical Medical Research Center for Cancer Pathogenic Genes Testing and Diagnosis, Changsha, Human, 410011, China
- Institute of Medical Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Yajun Gui
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China
- Hunan Clinical Medical Research Center for Cancer Pathogenic Genes Testing and Diagnosis, Changsha, Human, 410011, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China.
- Hunan Clinical Medical Research Center for Cancer Pathogenic Genes Testing and Diagnosis, Changsha, Human, 410011, China.
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Mansuri A, Trivedi C, Kumar A. Impact of virgin and weathered microplastics on zebrafish: Bioaccumulation, developmental toxicity and molecular pathway disruptions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 957:177510. [PMID: 39536872 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2024] [Revised: 10/15/2024] [Accepted: 11/09/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants with significant ecological risks, particularly due to their potential for bioaccumulation and toxicity. This study examines the effects of virgin spherical MPs and environmentally weathered MPs, specifically polystyrene (PS) and polyethylene (PE), on zebrafish larvae to enhance the environmental relevance of the findings. MP concentrations used were 105-106 particles/L for the virgin MP group and 104 particles/L for the weathered MP group, reflecting levels commonly observed in natural environments. Weathered MPs were produced through mechanical grinding followed by one month of exposure to water and sunlight to simulate environmental aging. MP characterization was performed using advanced microscopy techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results indicated significantly higher mortality in the weathered MP group (80%) compared to the virgin MP group (20%). Zebrafish larvae ingested MPs and exhibited disruptions in key molecular pathways, including those involved in oxidative stress response, apoptosis, and DNA damage repair. Notably, this study is among the first to evaluate the impact of MPs on the complete homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) DNA repair pathways. Our findings highlight the enhanced toxicity of weathered MPs and emphasize the importance of considering MP aging in toxicological assessments. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of MP pollution and provide valuable insights for the development of regulatory measures to protect aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulkhalik Mansuri
- Biological and Life Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Central Campus, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India.
| | - Charvi Trivedi
- Biological and Life Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Central Campus, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India.
| | - Ashutosh Kumar
- Biological and Life Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Ahmedabad University, Central Campus, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380009, Gujarat, India.
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Villacorta A, Cazorla-Ares C, Fuentes-Cebrian V, Valido IH, Vela L, Carrillo-Navarrete F, Morataya-Reyes M, Mejia-Carmona K, Pastor S, Velázquez A, Arribas Arranz J, Marcos R, López-Mesas M, Hernández A. Fluorescent labeling of micro/nanoplastics for biological applications with a focus on "true-to-life" tracking. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 476:135134. [PMID: 38986413 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
The increased environmental presence of micro-/nanoplastics (MNPLs) and the potential health risks associated with their exposure classify them as environmental pollutants with special environmental and health concerns. Consequently, there is an urgent need to investigate the potential risks associated with secondary MNPLs. In this context, using "true-to-life" MNPLs, resulting from the laboratory degradation of plastic goods, may be a sound approach. These non-commercial secondary MNPLs must be labeled to track their presence/journeys inside cells or organisms. Because the cell internalization of MNPLs is commonly analyzed using fluorescence techniques, the use of fluorescent dyes may be a sound method to label them. Five different compounds comprising two chemical dyes (Nile Red and Rhodamine-B), one optical brightener (Opticol), and two industrial dyes (Amarillo Luminoso and iDye PolyPink) were tested to determine their potential for such applications. Using commercial standards of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPLs) with an average size of 170 nm, different characteristics of the selected dyes such as the absence of impact on cell viability, specificity for plastic staining, no leaching, and lack of interference with other fluorochromes were analyzed. Based on the overall data obtained in the wide battery of assays performed, iDye PolyPink exhibited the most advantages, with respect to the other compounds, and was selected to effectively label "true-to-life" MNPLs. These advantages were confirmed using a proposed protocol, and labeling titanium-doped PETNPLs (obtained from the degradation of milk PET plastic bottles), as an example of "true-to-life" secondary NPLs. These results confirmed the usefulness of iDye PolyPink for labeling MNPLs and detecting cell internalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliro Villacorta
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain; Facultad de Recursos Naturales Renovables, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Camila Cazorla-Ares
- GTS Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Victor Fuentes-Cebrian
- GTS Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iris H Valido
- GTS Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lourdes Vela
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain; Faculty of Health Sciences Eugenio Espejo, Universidad UTE, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Fernando Carrillo-Navarrete
- Institut d'Investigació Tèxtil i Cooperació Industrial de Terrassa (INTEXTER) and Department of Chemical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Terrassa 08222, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Michelle Morataya-Reyes
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Karen Mejia-Carmona
- Institut Català de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia (ICN2-UAB-CSIC-BIST), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Susana Pastor
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Antonia Velázquez
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Jéssica Arribas Arranz
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Ricard Marcos
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain
| | - Montserrat López-Mesas
- GTS Research Group, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Alba Hernández
- Group of Mutagenesis, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Biosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès 08193, Spain.
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Huang W, Mo J, Li J, Wu K. Exploring developmental toxicity of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPS): Insights from investigations using zebrafish embryos. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173012. [PMID: 38719038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) have received increasing attention due to their high detection rates in human matrices and adverse health implications. However, the toxicity of MNPs on embryo/fetal development following maternal exposure remains largely unexplored. Zebrafish, sharing genetic similarities with human, boast a shorter life cycle, rapid embryonic development, and the availability of many transgenic strains, is a suitable model for environmental toxicology studies. This review comprehensively explores the existing research on the impacts of MNPs on zebrafish embryo development. MNPs exposure induces a wide array of toxic effects, encompassing neurodevelopmental toxicity, immunotoxicity, gastrointestinal effects, microbiota dysbiosis, cardiac dysfunctions, vascular toxicity, and metabolic imbalances. Moreover, MNPs disrupt the balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant capacity, culminating in oxidative damage and apoptosis. This study also offers insight into the current omics- and multi-omics based approaches in MNPs research, which greatly expedite the discovery of biochemical or metabolic pathways, and molecular mechanisms underlying MNPs exposure. Additionally, this review proposes a preliminary adverse outcome pathway framework to predict developmental toxicity caused by MNPs. It provides a comprehensive overview of pathways, facilitating a clearer understanding of the exposure and toxicity of MNPs, from molecular effects to adverse outcomes. The compiled data in this review provide a better understanding for MNPs effects on early life development, with the goal of increasing awareness about the risks posed to pregnant women by MNPs exposure and its potential impact on the health of their future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlong Huang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiezhang Mo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiejie Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Kusheng Wu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou 515041, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
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Rojoni SA, Ahmed MT, Rahman M, Hossain MMM, Ali MS, Haq M. Advances of microplastics ingestion on the morphological and behavioral conditions of model zebrafish: A review. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 272:106977. [PMID: 38820743 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2024.106977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Concerns have been conveyed regarding the availability and hazards of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic biota due to their widespread presence in aquatic habitats. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) are widely used as a model organism to study the adverse impacts of MPs due to their several compelling advantages, such as their small size, ease of breeding, inexpensive maintenance, short life cycle, year-round spawning, high fecundity, fewer legal restrictions, and genetic resemblances to humans. Exposure of organisms to MPs produces physical and chemical toxic effects, including abnormal behavior, oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, genotoxicity, immune toxicity, reproductive imbalance, and histopathological effects. But the severity of the effects is size and concentration-dependent. It has been demonstrated that smaller particles could reach the gut and liver, while larger particles are only confined to the gill, the digestive tract of adult zebrafish. This thorough review encapsulates the current body of literature concerning research on MPs in zebrafish and demonstrates an overview of MPs size and concentration effects on the physiological, morphological, and behavioral characteristics of zebrafish. Finding gaps in the literature paves the way for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suraiya Alam Rojoni
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md Tanvir Ahmed
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Mostafizur Rahman
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mer Mosharraf Hossain
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Md Sadek Ali
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Monjurul Haq
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Bioscience, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh.
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Sekar V, Shaji S, Sundaram B. Microplastic prevalence and human exposure in the bottled drinking water in the west Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, India. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 264:104346. [PMID: 38670001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widespread, minute plastic particles present in various aquatic environments, raising concerns about their effect on human health and ecosystems. The detrimental effects of MPs on the environment, include the contamination of ecosystems, harm to aquatic life through ingestion, potential disruption of food chains, and long-term ecological consequences. Despite numerous studies confirming the MP's presence in aquatic environments, research specifically focused on MPs in bottled drinking water (BDW) is limited. Research on MPs in drinking water is vital to assess potential health risks and develop strategies for ensuring water safety and quality. This study fills a research gap by investigating microplastics (MPs) in nine brands of BDW in the West Godavari region of Andhra Pradesh, India. The average MP concentration in BDW was found to be 2.89 ± 0.48 items/L, with fibers being the predominant shape and sizes ranging from 500 to 1000 μm. Transparent and blue were the most common colors. From ATR-FTIR analysis, the dominant polymer found was polypropylene (PP) followed by polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The human risk assessment was also calculated using the formula of Estimated daily intake (EDI) and Lifetime intake (LTI). The calculation found that the EDI of MPs for children and adults ranged from 0.041 to 0.291 MPs per kilogram per day and 0.019 to 0.133 MPs per kilogram per day, respectively. The mean LTI of MP consumption of an individual, ranged from 17,958 to 2,54,861 MPs, considering an average age of 75 years. The current findings offer valuable information for ongoing evaluations of the potential human risks linked to MP exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijaykumar Sekar
- Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Sheha Shaji
- Research Scholar, Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Baranidharan Sundaram
- Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Andhra Pradesh, India.
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