Microplastic and nanoplastic particles (MNPs)

Microplastic and nanoplastic particles (MNPs) are ubiquitous environmental contaminants resulting from the degradation of plastic waste or the intentional manufacture of small particles for industrial and cosmetic use (Hale et al., 2020, Nature Reviews Earth & Environment). Microplastics are typically defined as plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimeters, while nanoplastics are smaller than 1 micrometer (Campanale et al., 2020, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health). These particles are not therapeutic targets; rather, they are xenobiotics that enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact, and have been identified in human blood, lung tissue, and the placenta (Marfella et al., 2024, New England Journal of Medicine; Ragusa et al., 2021, Environment International). Once internalized, MNPs can induce oxidative stress, trigger chronic inflammation, and act as vectors for heavy metals and other toxic additives, potentially contributing to cardiovascular, respiratory, and metabolic disorders (Prata et al., 2020, Science of The Total Environment). Current biomedical research focuses on the toxicokinetics of these particles and their long-term impact on human health, particularly their role in promoting atherosclerotic plaque instability and systemic inflammatory states.

Other names

MicroplasticsNanoplasticsPlastic microparticlesPlastic nanoparticlesMNPSecondary microplasticsPrimary microplastics

Not applicable as microplastics and nanoplastics are environmental contaminants and not therapeutic targets.