REVIEW ANALYSIS ON THE IMPACT OF EXPOSURE TO NANOPLASTICS (NP’S) AND MICROPLASTICS (MP’S) ON HOMEOSTASIS AND THE FUNCTIONING OF THE HUMAN SYSTEM

Abstract

Exposure to microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) has become a growing concern for human health, given their widespread presence in the environment and the food chain. Their durability, low cost and residues have led to contamination of soil, air, water and food, allowing them to enter the body through ingestion, inhalation and thermal contact. These particles accumulate in various organs, such as the intestines, lungs, circulatory system, brain, heart, liver, kidneys and reproductive system, triggering inflammation, oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction. This contributes to cardiovascular, respiratory, intestinal, neurodegenerative and reproductive diseases. In addition, MPs and NPs can act as vectors for heavy metals, chemicals and pathogenic microorganisms, increasing toxicological risks. The review, based on 26 scientific articles within 5 years from the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases, reinforces the need for more comprehensive studies on the effects of MPs and NPs, considering their shapes, sizes and interactions, as well as the development of strategies for diagnosis, treatment and mitigation of health impacts.