The negative effects of microplastics on human health have long been a topic in the news. According to a new study, it has been revealed that over time, microplastics cross the blood-brain barrier and start to accumulate in the brain. Researchers compared the brains of deceased individuals in 2016 and 2024. The examination showed that the density of microplastics in the brains autopsied in 2024 was approximately 50% higher. The findings of the research were published in the journal “Nature Medicine.”

The brains of 12 patients diagnosed with dementia were also examined in the study. It was found that the brains of these patients had 3 to 5 times more microplastics compared to normal brains. Phoebe Stapleton, Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology at Rutgers University, stated that scientists have been investigating whether microplastics can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, which has a thick membrane. Moreover, the research showed that microplastics not only entered the brain but also reached the frontal cortex.

Experts announced that the brain was found to be more susceptible to microplastics compared to other organs. Results of experiments on animals confirm the negative effects of microplastics on the brain. Changes and cognitive impairments were observed in the brains of mice given water with microplastics for 3 weeks. These changes were noted to be similar to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

Scientists point out that microplastics from various sources such as plastic bottles, tires, and synthetic clothing enter the human body through air, water, and food. Experts highlight that everyone is exposed to microplastics, but more research is needed to determine their relationship with human health.