Scientists have long been concerned about the accumulation of tiny synthetic particles known as microplastics in human organs. A new study from researchers at the University of New Mexico has revealed that brain samples recently collected by the team during autopsies contain significantly more microplastics than similar samples gathered about a decade ago. Moreover, the university team found a higher concentration of these troublesome petrochemical remnants in brain samples compared to samples from the kidneys and liver. This was stated by the lead author of the study, medical scientist Alexander Nikhart.
What Did the Researchers Report?
The researchers noted that from 1950 to 2019, approximately 9 billion tons of plastic were produced worldwide, used in the manufacturing of various items: single-use packaging, food containers, children’s toys, clothing, garden furniture, and more.
Since then, most of this material has broken down into very small particles, creating dust that spreads across the globe. These micro- and nanoparticles have contaminated and continue to pollute everything around us. They have even been found in archaeological sites, the deepest ocean trenches, and even in breast milk.
“The concentration of anthropogenic microplastics and nanoplastics in the environment, measuring 500 micrometers to 1 nanometer, has increased exponentially over the last half-century,” the scientists wrote in their report.
Nikhart’s team examined tissue samples from 52 human bodies that were autopsied between 2016 and 2024. Every tested sample contained plastic particles, as reported by Science Alert.
While the liver and kidney samples showed the same amount of plastic, the concentration in brain samples was 30 times higher. This is astonishing, considering that the liver and kidneys help filter and break down waste in the body. Our brains also have an additional layer of protection against pollutants: the so-called blood-brain barrier, which is supposed to prevent such materials from passing through.
The concentration of plastic in the analyzed tissues did not depend on age, ethnicity, or cause of death. However, samples from individuals diagnosed with dementia showed higher concentrations of particles than those without the condition.
“Atrophy of brain tissue, disruption of the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, and poor elimination mechanisms are characteristics of dementia that lead to increased concentrations of micro- and nanoplastics,” the scientists explained.
Nikhart and his colleagues joined the chorus of researchers who have been calling for further studies on the impact of microplastics on health for many years.
Meanwhile, humanity continues to ingest plastic fragments as production continues to rise.
“Plastic is a petrochemical product: substances that are ultimately derived from oil and gas,” reminded Adam Hani, a global development researcher from the University of Exeter in the UK, who was not involved in the study.
The results of the scientific work were published in the journal Nature Medicine.