New Delhi: A recent study has presented strong evidence that nano-sized plastic particles originating from single-use Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles may interfere with essential biological systems linked to human well-being. Although nano-plastics have been detected in the human body, their direct biological effects remain largely unclear. While earlier research mainly focused on environmental pollution or tissue damage, little was known about how these particles interact with beneficial gut microbes.
Microbes in the digestive system play an essential role by influencing immunity, metabolism, and mental health. Because of this, examining how nano-plastics affect these microbes is important.
Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology, Mohali, under the Department of Science and Technology, conducted a detailed investigation involving multiple biological systems – gut bacteria, human epithelial cells, and red blood cells. The objective was to connect everyday exposure to plastic particles with potential hidden health outcomes, according to an official statement.
The team recreated nano-plastics from PET bottles in controlled lab conditions and tested their impact on three biological models. A probiotic bacterium, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, was used to represent the gut microbiome. Long-term interaction with nano-plastics resulted in reduced bacterial growth, weaker colonization, and increased cellular stress. The bacteria also became more vulnerable to antibiotics.
Blood compatibility was assessed using red blood cells. At elevated concentrations, the nano-plastics damaged cell membranes and triggered hemolytic effects. Human epithelial cells were examined to understand broader cellular responses. Extended exposure led to oxidative stress, inflammatory pathways, DNA damage, apoptosis, and measurable changes in nutrient and energy metabolism.
Together, the results show that nano-plastics from commonly used PET items are biologically reactive and may interfere with gut function, blood stability, and healthy cellular processes. The findings highlight previously unknown risks associated with chronic exposure to microscopic plastic particles.
The research, published in Nanoscale Adv., signals growing concerns about plastic particles already present in food, water, and in some cases the human body. The outcomes may guide health policy, environmental regulation, and future product innovation.
These insights may also support further research across agriculture, environmental health, nutrition, and ecosystem science, where plastic exposure and microbial balance overlap.
