# Microplastics and neurodegenerative disease research > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/microplastics-and-neurodegenerative-disease-research > Updated: 2026-08-16T10:47:25.000Z. Sources: 21. Developments: 2. Researchers at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia have conducted studies identifying the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics in human cerebrospinal fluid. The research, published in ‘Brain Communications’, marks the first time these contaminants have been measured in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) compared to healthy individuals. The findings suggest that these particles are capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, which may lead to neurotoxic effects or altered cellular balance in the central nervous system. High levels of these particles are potentially linked to an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, including ALS, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. Exposure is attributed to the ingestion and inhalation of plastic waste from food, air, and water. In specific areas such as the Amalfi Coast, the accumulation of plastic waste from tourism and maritime activities contributes to the degradation of materials into these microscopic particles, which may then accumulate in regions like the frontal cortex. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-16: Microplastics found in human cerebrospinal fluid linked to neurodegenerative risks Researchers have discovered micro and nanoplastics in human cerebrospinal fluid, suggesting a link to neurodegenerative diseases like ALS, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/microplastics-found-in-human-cerebrospinal-fluid-linked-to-neurodegenerative-risks ### 2026-08-13: University of Modena study links microplastics to ALS risk An Italian study published in ‘Brain Communications’ links high levels of microplastics and nanoplastics in the central nervous system to an increased risk of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). 18 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/unimore-study-links-microplastics-to-als-risk --- Cite as: Microplastics and neurodegenerative disease research. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/microplastics-and-neurodegenerative-disease-research