to their potential health risks. However, they are still found in various products, including clothing, food packaging, and building materials. The researchers conducted experiments using a model of human skin and different types of microplastics to simulate real-life exposure. The results showed that the chemicals leached into the sweat and were then absorbed through the skin. This finding highlights the potential risks associated with exposure to these chemicals and calls for further investigation into their presence in everyday products.
There is evidence of harmful health effects from exposure to certain chemicals, such as damage to the liver or nervous system, cancer, and reproductive health risks. Despite this, these chemicals can still be found in the environment due to their presence in older electronics, furniture, carpets, and building materials.
Although the full extent of harm caused by microplastics is not completely understood, there is growing concern about their role in exposing humans to toxic chemicals.
In a study published last year, the research team demonstrated that chemicals were released from microplastics into human sweat. The current study now reveals that these chemicals can also be absorbed from sweat through the skin.
The team conducted experiments using 3D human skin models as an alternative to using laboratory animals and excised human tissues. The skin models were exposed to two common forms of microplastics containing PBDEs over a 24-hour period. The study, published in Environment International, found that up to 8% of the chemical exposed could be absorbed by the skin, with more hydrated skin absorbing higher levels of the chemical.
this procedure adds to the levels of harmful chemicals present in the body.
Dr. Ovokeroye Abafe, who is now at Brunel University, conducted the study while at the University of Birmingham. He stated: “Microplastics are widely distributed in the environment, yet we have limited knowledge about the potential health issues they may cause. Our study demonstrates that they serve as carriers of toxic chemicals, which can enter our bloodstream through the skin. These chemicals are long-lasting, so with repeated or regular exposure, there will be an accumulation over time that can lead to the point where they begin to cause issues.””cause harm.”
Dr Mohamed Abdallah, who is an Associate Professor of Environmental Sciences at the University of Birmingham and the principal investigator for the project, stated that “These findings offer crucial evidence for regulators and policymakers to enhance legislation related to microplastics and protect public health from harmful exposure.”
Co-author of the paper, Professor Stuart Harrad, also emphasized that “the study represents a significant advancement in comprehending the risks associated with exposure to microplastics on our health. Based on our findings, further research is necessary to fully grasp the various pathways of human exposure to microplastics.The researchers studied the potential health risks posed by microplastics and how to reduce their negative impact. They plan to continue exploring other ways in which microplastics could introduce harmful chemicals into the body, such as through breathing and consumption. This research is supported by a Marie Curie Research Fellowship as part of the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme.
