Stowaways: Advanced in vitro placental models for studying transfer and endocrine disruption of micro- and nanoplastics
Minimal effects of micro- and nanoplastics on the placenta in the lab
Toxicologist Jeske van Boxel shows that microplastics have no acute effects in placental models, but they do transport from the maternal to the fetal side and have a mildly disruptive effect on hormone formation.
Plastics consist of various polymers (chains) and substances, and these plastics can breakdown into microplastics. A growing body of research has shown that microplastics are found in various organs, such as the placenta, in the human body, but the actual effects are unknown. It is known that the substances added to plastic can disrupt hormones, but we know little about microplastics themselves. Therefore, this study examined the effects of microplastics on placental function.
Hormone formation
''The study revealed that we see no acute effects in our placental models after exposure to microplastics, but the microplastics can transport from the maternal to the fetal side'', van Boxel explains. ''In addition, we found slight disruptions to hormone formation in various placental models, particularly a reduction in estrogen levels. These hormones are crucial for regulating pregnancy.''
European project
Van Boxel's research was part of the European AURORA project. The goal was to gain insight into the health effects of microplastics on pregnant women and their babies. Gaining this insight is crucial for tightening regulations regarding plastic production. Van Boxel: "Our research does demonstrate the importance of reducing exposure to microplastics. Currently, there is insufficient research into the health effects that could lead to legislative changes. A follow-up project would be an excellent way to gather more information about the effects on fertility, for example."
All experiments in this dissertation were conducted in the lab. The placental models used consist of different cell types so that a "mini placenta" could be recreated, closely mimicking the structure and function of the placenta.
More information on the thesis
