A REVIEW ON EFFECTS OF NANOPLASTICS ON HUMAN BODY

Nanoplastics-plastic particles smaller than 1000 nm-have arisen as a major environmental problem as a result of plastics widespread use and insufficient disposal worldwide. While massive plastic debris is visible in the environment, tiny plastic particles, such as nanoplastics, offer particular risks due to their small size, persistence, and ability to cross biological barriers. This review investigates the creation, environmental pathways, origins, and transport mechanisms of nanoplastics, with a focus on their prevalence in air, water, and soil, as well as their subsequent absorption into the human body by ingestion, inhalation, and, to a lesser extent, skin contact. Recent studies have shown a number of health hazards connected with nanoplastic exposure, including respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, liver and kidney damage, neurotoxicity, and alterations to the endocrine, reproductive, and cardiovascular systems. These negative consequences are related to mechanisms such oxidative stress, inflammation, microbiota dysbiosis, and the activity of plastic-associated endocrine disrupting chemicals. Importantly, some nanoplastics can penetrate biological barriers such as the blood-brain and placental barriers, creating concerns among vulnerable populations. Current regulatory measures for nanoplastics are insufficient, with the majority of laws focusing on microplastic and plastic waste management.

Keywords: Plastics,Nanoplastics,Pollution,Environment,Health.