Plastics degrade over time, breaking down into micro- and nanoparticles that are literally everywhere in our environment – contaminating water, soil, air, and, as research now confirms, even the human body. But what impact do these tiny particles have on our health? Do they pose a significant risk, and if so, to what extent? Scientists at the Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development, and Innovation (IKIKK) at the University of Szeged are working to answer these pressing questions. In collaboration with researchers from the University of Cambridge and Ulm University, they are investigating the potential health effects of nanoplastics. The project is supported by a HU-RIZONT grant.
Dr. József Maléth, a researcher at the University of Szeged’s Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development, and Innovation (IKIKK) and the Szent-Györgyi Albert Medical School of the university, explains that tiny plastic particles can influence various cellular functions, potentially impacting fertility as well as cells in the respiratory and digestive tracts. However, systematic studies with reliable data remain scarce or only partially available, making it all the more important to understand these effects.
As an analogy, Dr. Maléth compares plastic exposure to smoking. In the mid-20th century, few anticipated the severe health consequences that would emerge 10, 20, or even 30 years later. Similarly, the long-term risks of plastic exposure may still be unfolding, with effects that are not yet fully understood. While the packaging industry and various manufacturing technologies prioritize convenience and cost efficiency, they also place an increasing burden on the environment – and, as is becoming ever more evident, on human health.
“In our research, we are investigating how nanoplastic contamination affects living organisms,” explains Dr. József Maléth. “It remains unclear whether these effects are determined by the quantity of nanoplastics, the duration of exposure, or factors such as their composition, structure, or shape. We also do not yet know the level of exposure that could pose a risk to human health – whether by causing harm, worsening existing diseases, or contributing to the development of new conditions. Additionally, certain digestive disorders – such as inflammatory bowel disease, which increases intestinal permeability – may be particularly affected by nanoplastics, potentially exacerbating the disease.”
It is important to recognize the significant size difference between microplastics and nanoplastics, which are even smaller. While researchers have already collected measurable data on microplastics, far less is known about nanoplastics. Until recently, even the terminology used to describe them lacked global consistency.
The multidisciplinary project led by SZTE IKIKK brings together experts from multiple scientific fields across various faculties and institutes at the University of Szeged:
- Researchers from the Institute of Chemistry and the Institute of Physics at the Faculty of Science and Informatics (TTIK) are working to improve current detection methods, particularly for identifying nanoplastics in biological samples.
- Experts at the Faculty of Pharmacy are studying how nanoplastics penetrate the body through different entry pathways, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.
- Researchers from the Institute of Biology, along with Dr. Maléth’s research group, are examining the impact of nanoplastics on both physiological functions and pathological processes, investigating their effects across various living systems – from individual cells to entire organisms.
- Additionally, legal experts from the Faculty of Law and Political Sciences are analyzing existing regulations and emerging research findings to propose recommendations for a revised regulatory framework.
“Our goal is to support policymakers and regulatory authorities with evidence-based recommendations, ultimately contributing to the protection of public health,” Dr. Maléth emphasizes.
Researchers at SZTE are collaborating with renowned partner institutions on this project, with each bringing specialized expertise to the table. The University of Cambridge, a world leader in super-resolution microscopy techniques, plays a crucial role in precisely examining structures at the nanoscale. Their team will contribute to the development and optimization of this technology. At the same time, the Core Facility for Organoids at Ulm University, one of the most advanced institutes globally, specializes in three-dimensional organoid cell cultures. These models more accurately replicate organ functions than traditional two-dimensional cell cultures, making them a key component of the project.
“IKIKK provides an excellent framework for experts from different disciplines to come together, think collaboratively, and tackle problems from multiple perspectives. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a deeper and more comprehensive understanding. More importantly, the findings will not only enhance our knowledge of the health risks associated with plastic pollution but also support the development of more sustainable practices and products. Furthermore, the methods developed and the insights gained through this project could lay the groundwork for future research, contribute to improved public health regulations, and help mitigate plastic pollution,” summarizes Dr. József Maléth.
You can access our previous article on this topic by clicking the link below:
IKIKKinfó
Written by Anna Bobkó
Photos by Anna Bobkó
