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[HEALTH] · United States · 3 sources

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Part of situation: Microplastic accumulation and biological impact research (8 clusters)

Columbia University study links microplastics to reactive oxygen species

microplastics reactive oxygen species oxidative stress Columbia University environmental health

A study published in the journal Nature by researchers at Columbia University has revealed that microplastic particles release highly reactive chemicals, known as reactive oxygen species (ROS), when they come into contact with water. This discovery challenges the long-held assumption that plastic is a relatively safe material with stable chemical chains.

The research indicates that these reactive substances form even when new, pure plastic is exposed to water, rather than being limited to aged plastic degraded by environmental factors like sun or wind. These ROS can cause oxidative stress, a condition where free radicals overwhelm the body's natural defenses, potentially leading to inflammation and cellular damage.

According to Wei Min, a chemistry professor at Columbia University and study co-author, these substances can interact with and damage biological molecules such as proteins, DNA, lipids, and RNA, potentially causing genetic mutations. The study tested various common plastics, including polystyrene (used in foam cups), polyethylene (used in food linings), and PET (used in water bottles).

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Columbia University · Nature · Wei Min

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Sources

خطر خفي في البلاستيك يهدد صحة الإنسان - CBN [cbnlb.com]
خطر خفي في البلاستيك يهدد صحة الإنسان - الصدارة نيوز [www.alsadaranews.com]
دراسة تكشف لماذا لم يعد العلماء يعتبرون البلاستيك أكثر المواد أماناً - الوكيل الإخباري [s.alwakeelnews.com]