Microplastics in the Human Respiratory System

Condition(s) studied

Study summary

Environmental pollution from plastics has become a significant global issue, with microplastics-tiny particles resulting from plastic degradation-being increasingly detected in various environments, including aquatic ecosystems, soil, and air. These particles can enter the human body through ingestion or inhalation. Despite growing concerns, little is known about the prevalence and types of microplastics in human lungs. Some studies suggest that microplastics may negatively impact respiratory function and lead to lung diseases. Hypothetically, they could cause inflammation, metabolic disorders, and contribute to lung cancer development. However, research is still in its early stages, and conclusive evidence about the mechanisms linking microplastics to negative health effects is lacking. This study aims to quantify and characterize microplastics in the lung parenchyma and lymph nodes of patients with lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. Tissue samples will be collected during surgeries, and microplastic particles will be detected using FTIR microspectroscopy. The research may contribute to a better understanding of the role of microplastics in the development of respiratory diseases.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Number of lung microplastics. — Time of surgery (Single time point; microplastic measurement is performed on a lung sample taken during surgery).
  Number of microplastics particles detected per sample of lung tissue or regional lymph nodes obtained from patients during surgery.

Trial sites (1)

More Wielkopolskie Centrum Pulmonologii i Torakochirurgii trials in Poland

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