Polystyrene is a common plastic found in many products and is a major source of environmental pollution. Tiny particles of polystyrene—called microplastics—have been found in living organisms and are considered a growing health risk.
This study looked at how both new (pristine) and sunlight-aged polystyrene microplastics affect immune cells in mice. Researchers simulated aging by exposing the microplastics to visible light, mimicking what happens to plastic in the environment.
When they exposed mouse immune cells (macrophages) to these particles, they found that even low doses caused harmful effects. The aged microplastics had a stronger impact: they damaged cells, increased oxidative stress (a sign of cell strain), caused DNA damage, and triggered inflammation.
These results suggest that environmental exposure, such as sunlight, makes microplastics more toxic. This raises concerns about the health risks of microplastics as they break down and change in the environment.
Click HERE to read the full study