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Researchers have discovered the first evidence of microplastics in the human placenta, which they said was “a matter of great concern.”
The researchers selected six healthy women who had a vaginal delivery at term of pregnancy in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the San Giovanni Calibita Fatebenefratelli Hospital on the Tiberian Island in Rome, Italy. A plastic-free protocol was adopted throughout the experiment to avoid plastic contamination.
According to the study, published online in the journal Environment International on December 2, the placentas were deposited in a metal container and sectioned into portions taken from three sides: the maternal side, the fetal side, and the chorioamniotic membranes. The portions were then processed for analysis by Raman microspectroscopy.
Twelve microplastic fragments were found in the placentas of four women, according to the study. Five microplastics were found in the fetal side parts of the placentas, 4 in the maternal side parts, and 3 in the chorioamniotic membranes.
All the microplastics found were pigmented and about 10 microns in size, except for two that were smaller (about 5 microns).
The study differentiates microplastics between dyed microplastics (polypropylene) and paint / coating / tint microplastics, which are often applied for cosmetics, adhesives, personal care products and paints, among others.
Although the researchers weren’t sure how microplastics get into the bloodstream, they cited other studies showing that microplastics can access the bloodstream and reach the placenta through the maternal respiratory system and gastrointestinal tract. According to the researchers, the presence of microplastics and microparticles in the placenta can “alter several pathways of cellular regulation in the placenta,” including the mechanisms of immunity during pregnancy, among others.
“This study sheds new light on the level of human exposure to [microplastics] and microparticles in general, ”the researchers said in the study. “Due to the crucial role of the placenta in supporting [fetus] development and acting as an interface between the latter and the external environment, the presence of exogenous and potentially harmful (plastic) particles is of great concern. ”
“More studies are needed to assess whether the presence of [microplastics] in the human placenta it can trigger immune responses or it can lead to the release of toxic pollutants, which is detrimental to pregnancy, ”they added. /outside
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