Overview of microplastic accumulation in human bile and its toxic effects. (IMAGE)
Caption
This schematic summarizes the study workflow and main findings. Human exposure to microplastics may occur through multiple routes, including industrial pollution, airborne exposure, food packaging, drinking-related plastics, and consumer products. Bile samples collected from individuals with and without gallstones were analyzed using Py-GC/MS, LDIR, and SEM, which confirmed the presence, polymer composition, particle size, and morphology of microplastics in human bile. Mechanistic experiments further showed that nanoplastic exposure induced cholangiocyte senescence by triggering mitochondrial dysfunction, including increased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, enhanced Drp1-mediated fission, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreased ATP production, while melatonin partially alleviated these toxic effects.
Credit
Environmental Science and Ecotechnology
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License
CC BY