Here is a succinct précis in the form of an infographic of an article in The Times newspaper of 17th Sept 2024 which refers to a study on the discovery of microplastics in the brains of a significant percentage of deceased San Paulo Brazilians (8/15) which has concerned the scientists and which should be very concerning to the citizens of the world as plastic pollution is a major health hazard to humankind and all animals including all wildlife. Nowhere near enough is being done to clear it up and prevent further pollution although some steps have occurred.
The study suggests that we breathe microplastics into the nasal cavity from where they enter the brain. Perhaps another route is by eating fish which ingest microplastics in the oceans which are heavy polluted.
Associated: Cocaine in sharpnose sevengill sharks. A shocking discovery (infographic)
There is plastic in your brain? Image of olfactory bulb by: By Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator. (labeled by was_a_bee) – File:Head_olfactory_nerve.jpg by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator, CC BY 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=37206430 by Michael BroadOlfactory bulb
The olfactory bulb is part of the brain. It plays a crucial role in the sense of smell by processing olfactory (smell) information. Located at the front part of the brain, just above the nasal cavity, the olfactory bulb receives input from sensory neurons in the nasal epithelium, which detect odor molecules. It then transmits this information to other brain regions, particularly the olfactory cortex, for further processing and perception of smells.
Anatomically, it’s considered part of the forebrain, specifically associated with the limbic system, which is involved in emotions and memory, explaining why certain smells can trigger strong emotional memories.
Summary of the study referred to
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open revealed that microplastic particles were found in the brains of 8 out of 15 deceased individuals from São Paulo, Brazil. Researchers detected microplastics in the olfactory bulbs, the part of the brain responsible for processing smells. The discovery suggests that microplastics may enter the brain through inhalation, bypassing the blood-brain barrier via the olfactory pathway.
The study identified 16 synthetic particles, mostly polypropylene, commonly used in everyday items like packaging and clothing. The particles ranged in size from 5.5 to 26.4 microns. Given their potential neurotoxic effects, the findings raise concerns about the impact of microplastics on brain health, particularly in relation to neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. The research calls for further studies to understand the full implications of microplastics in the brain and their potential role in neurological disorders.
Sources: The Independent, Medical Daily, MxM News. My thanks to ChatGPT.
