As concerns rise about the effects of tiny plastic particles on human health, Flinders University researchers have led new research on whether nanoplastics can accumulate or cause damage in kidneys - our body's major blood filtering system.
Their study, published in high-ranking international journal Cell Biology and Toxicology, calls for more investigations into the long-term risks, warning that high nanoplastics (NPs) particle 'burden' could seriously compromise kidney cell health and function.
"The findings demonstrate that while lower concentrations of NPs (less than 1 micron or 0.001mm in diameter) may not result in immediate toxicity to the kidney cells, particularly in terms of short-term exposure, higher burdens can compromise overall cell health and function, causing changes to the cell shape, survival and cell regulation," says first author Hayden Gillings, a PhD Candidate in Nanoplastics and Health at Flinders University.
"The results also indicate that the effects are influenced not only by concentration but also by polymer composition and particle size, with some combinations inducing significant cellular changes even at relatively low doses," says Mr Gillings, from the College of Science and Engineering.
The laboratory study tested kidney cells with varying concentrations and sized NPs, sourced from commonly used polymers - polystyrene (PS), poly(methyl methacrylate) or 'PMMA,' and polyethylene (PE).
It was supported by medical scientists from Monash University as well as Flinders University's College of Medicine and Public Health.
The research team says sustained or repeated damage to regulatory kidney cells could impair kidney function, reduce filtration efficiency, clearance capacity, and lead to their potential buildup of NPs in kidney tissue over time.
