A recent study published in Nature Medicine has found microplastics in human brains at significantly higher concentrations than in other organs, with plastic accumulation increasing by 50% over the past eight years. Researchers at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences analyzed brain tissue samples from deceased individuals and detected 12 different types of plastics, including polyethylene, widely used for packaging.
The study suggests that microplastics are accumulating in the human body through food consumption, particularly meat, as it passes through the food chain. The plastic particles tend to accumulate in fat cells in the brain’s insulating myelin sheath, which regulates signal transmission. This raises concerns about potential effects on brain function and health.
The researchers caution that while there is a correlation between microplastic accumulation and dementia, they cannot definitively establish causation. Further studies are needed to fully understand the relationship between microplastics and human health.
As global plastic production continues unabated, existing polymers will take decades to decay into microscopic particles, resulting in ongoing growth of micro- and nano-plastics in the environment. The study’s findings highlight the urgent need for awareness and action on reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices to mitigate this global threat to human health.
Reference: “Bioaccumulation of microplastics in decedent human brains” by Alexander J. Nihart et al., Nature Medicine, 3 February 2025, DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03453-1
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/disturbing-discovery-human-brains-are-filling-up-with-microplastics-and-it-may-be-causing-dementia