Protection Against Contamination by Micro- and Nanoplastic Particles

Microplastics and nanoplastics cause ubiquitous contamination in our environment and food chain. How much of this pollution enters our bodies through inhalation and ingestion? Do micro- and nanoplastics have a negative impact on human health? The EU-funded POLYRISK project is investigating these questions by examining the extent to which humans are exposed to such micro- and nanoplastics and what toxic effects this has on our immune system. The interdisciplinary POLYRISK project team uses advanced methods to chemically detect and quantify micro- and nanoplastics, understand key mechanisms of their toxicity in vitro, and identify biomarkers of toxicity in blood and saliva.

The interdisciplinary POLYRISK project team uses advanced methods to chemically detect and quantify micro- and nanoplastics, understand key mechanisms of their toxicity in vitro, and identify biomarkers of toxicity in blood and saliva.

The consortium uniquely combines interdisciplinary experience and expertise in quality-controlled chemical analysis of MNPs and additives, intestinal and respiratory toxicity models, human exposure epidemiology, immunotoxicology, and real-world high-exposure studies. POLYRISK's novel strategy for assessing human risk is based on mechanistic considerations and pragmatically takes into account the complexity of the class of MNP toxins. Building on groundbreaking science, stakeholder engagement, and strong communication, POLYRISK aims to rapidly reduce current MNP risk uncertainties and support EU efforts to ensure that public health is adequately protected from the potential risks of MNP pollution. POLYRISK is part of the European cluster “Health Impacts of Micro- and Nanoplastics.”

All of these are important elements of the POLYRISK strategy for assessing the risk of micro- and nanoplastics on humans. The results of the assessment will feed into EU policy and contribute to protecting human health – today and in the future.