Evidence on Invasion of Blood, Adipose Tissues, Nervous System and Reproductive System of Mice After a Single Oral Exposure: Nanoplastics versus Microplastics

Abstract

Objective: This study was designed to provide the evidences on the toxicokinetics of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in the bodies of mammals.

Methods: 100 nm, 3 μm, and 10 μm fluorescent polystyrene (PS) beads were administered to mice once by gavage at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight. The levels and change of fluorescence intensity in samples of blood, subcutaneous fat, perirenal fat, peritesticular fat, cerebrum, cerebellum, testis, and epididymis were measured at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 h after administration using an IVIS Spectrum small-animal imaging system. Histological examination, confocal laser scanning, and transmission electron microscope were performed to corroborate the findings.

Results: After confirming fluorescent dye leaching and impact of pH value, increased levels of fluorescence intensity in blood, all adipose tissues examined, cerebrum, cerebellum, and testis were measured in the 100 nm group, but not in the 3 and 10 μm groups except in the cerebellum and testis at 4 h for the 3 μm PS beads. The presence of PS beads was further corroborated.

Conclusion: After a single oral exposure, NPs are absorbed rapidly in the blood, accumulate in adipose tissues, and penetrate the blood-brain/testis barriers. As expected, the toxicokinetics of MPs is significantly size-dependent in mammals.

Keywords: Adipose accumulation; Blood uptake; Blood-brain barrier; Blood-testis barrier; Microplastics; Nanoplastics.