University of Modena study links microplastics to ALS risk

Researchers at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia have identified a potential link between microplastics and an increased risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The study, published in ‘Brain Communications’, represents the first time concentrations of microplastics and nanoplastics have been measured in the cerebrospinal fluid of ALS patients compared to healthy individuals.

The findings suggest that elevated levels of these contaminants, particularly nanoplastics, may have a neurotoxic effect or act in conjunction with other toxic substances. The research also characterized the relationship between the size and levels of microplastics in the blood—originating from environmental exposure and diet—and their presence in the central nervous system.

Coordinated by Marco Vinceti and Jessica Mandrioli, the study involved collaboration with the University of Catania and Boston University. While the results provide a new avenue for investigating neurodegenerative diseases, the authors emphasize that larger studies are required to confirm these findings and clarify the specific neurotoxic mechanisms involved.