Researchers are increasingly concerned about the health risks associated with chemical additives in microplastics. A recent study used 3D human skin-equivalent models to investigate how flame retardant additives in microplastics are absorbed by the skin. The study found that several flame-retardant additives were able to pass through the skin barrier. This research is contributing to a better understanding of the potential dangers of microplastics and how people may be exposed and affected.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are smaller than 5 millimeters and humans are commonly exposed to them. However, the concern is more centered around the chemical additives found in microplastics. These additives, particularly in the flame retardant and plasticizer categories, have been linked to adverse health effects such as endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and cancer. Although many countries have banned the commercial formulation of certain flame retardants like PBDEs, their environmental contamination remains a concern.
The study conducted with 3D human skin equivalent models investigated how flame retardants found in microplastics could potentially be absorbed through the skin and enter the bloodstream. Researchers found that certain flame retardants were able to get through the skin barrier and reach the equivalent of the human bloodstream, although only a small amount actually entered the bloodstream. Skin hydration was also found to impact the absorption of flame-retardant chemicals, with sweatier skin increasing dermal bioavailability.
Despite the significant findings of the study, there are limitations to consider. Skin models may not fully replicate the complexities of real-world exposures, and the study only examined a small number of flame retardant types. Future research could explore additional flame retardants and chemicals to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the potential health risks associated with exposure to microplastics.
The study’s authors emphasize the importance of addressing the health implications of exposure to harmful chemicals present in microplastics. They suggest that regulators and policymakers use this experimental evidence to legislate for microplastics and protect public health from exposure to toxic additive chemicals. Furthermore, strategies to develop safer flame retardants and explore alternatives to hazardous additives could help minimize potential health risks associated with exposure to microplastics.
Efforts to address the dangers of microplastics and their related chemical additives could involve developing safer flame retardants and using less-flammable materials. Designing out hazardous chemicals from products through functional substitution and finding alternative materials that are less flammable could be effective strategies. Scientists and researchers are exploring ways to mitigate the risks associated with exposure to harmful chemicals in microplastics, emphasizing the importance of protecting public health and the environment.
