Effects of tiny plastics on gut health
Fabrication of Nanoscale Plastics and Effects on Intestinal Barrier Function In Vitro
This study is looking at how tiny plastic particles in our food and drinks might affect our gut health, and it's for anyone interested in understanding the potential risks of eating or drinking these plastics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Triangle Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Research Triangle Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10675055 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how nanoscale plastics, commonly found in food and beverages, affect the function of the intestinal barrier. By fabricating specific types of these plastics, the study aims to understand their impact on human health through in vitro experiments. The approach involves creating well-characterized nanoplastics from widely used materials and testing their effects on intestinal cells. This research is crucial as it addresses the growing concern about the health risks associated with the ingestion of microplastics and nanoplastics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals concerned about the health effects of microplastics and those with gastrointestinal issues.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume food or beverages containing plastics or who have no gastrointestinal health concerns may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the health risks posed by plastic ingestion, potentially informing guidelines for food safety and public health.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on the effects of polystyrene on biological systems, this study is novel as it focuses on a broader range of globally dominant plastics that have not been previously tested.
Where this research is happening
Research Triangle Park, United States
- Research Triangle Institute — Research Triangle Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fennell, Timothy Raymond — Research Triangle Institute
- Study coordinator: Fennell, Timothy Raymond
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.