Faculty Advisor(s)

Anthony Serino

Download

Download Poster (476 KB)

Abstract

Microplastics Effect on Gut Microbiota 

PELLEW, V, Misericordia University, 301 Lake Street, Dallas, PA, United States, 18612, [email protected]

Microplastics (MPs) are small plastic particles less than 5mm in size that are present throughout the environment and are commonly found in both food and water, making human exposure unavoidable. Ingestion occurs through consuming contaminated food, inhalation by breathing airborne particles, and dermal contact via phone cases or skin care products. Once absorbed into the body, MPs may influence human health by altering the gut microbiome.

Results from human fecal studies and in vitro models have shown that MPs can alter pathways associated with the reactive oxygen species (ROS), short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and overall mitochondrial homeostasis. Together, the alterations of the SCFAs, ROS and mitochondria dysfunction lead to inflammatory signaling, causing chronic inflammation and microbial imbalances. Over time, this exposure can negatively affect the overall health of the individual by leading to metabolic dysfunction and immune dysregulation. Current evidence highlights gut microbiota as the key mediator between MP exposure and chronic health conditions.

This paper examines current research on how MPs disrupt microbial communities, as well as how disruption within the gut contributes to immune dysregulation and metabolic dysfunction. Developing at an accelerating rate, research limitations may exist due to the limited long-term human data by means to collect fecal samples due to ethical reasoning. As a result, literature reviews highlight animal collections and in vitro systems, such as the Stimulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME).

Publication Date

2026

Document Type

Poster

Department

Biology

Keywords

microplastics, gut microbiome, gut microbiota

Disciplines

Biology | Life Sciences

Microplastics Effect on Gut Microbiota

Included in

Biology Commons

Share

COinS