How tiny plastic particles we eat affect our bodies and cause inflammation
Intestinal uptake, translocation, biodistribution, and toxicity of ingested environmentally relevant micro-nanoplastics (MNPs) and the role of inflammation using advanced cellular and in vivo models
['FUNDING_R01'] · RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11137645
This project looks at how tiny plastic particles, called micro-nanoplastics, get into our bodies when we eat them and if they cause harm or inflammation.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11137645 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are constantly exposed to tiny plastic particles, called micro-nanoplastics (MNPs), through our food and environment. This project explores how these MNPs enter our bodies after we eat them and where they travel, such as to our blood and organs. We want to understand if these plastics cause any harm or lead to inflammation in the body. Using advanced lab models and animal studies, we will learn more about how MNPs move through the body and what effects they might have on our health.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit everyone by informing public health strategies regarding environmental contaminants.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment for existing conditions would not directly benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how ingested micro-nanoplastics affect our health could lead to better guidelines for food safety and environmental protection, potentially reducing future health risks for everyone.
How similar studies have performed: While some studies have shown micro-nanoplastics can enter the body, this project aims to fill major knowledge gaps regarding their specific impacts on human health, making it a novel and critical area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES — Newark, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DEMOKRITOU, PHILIP — RUTGERS BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: DEMOKRITOU, PHILIP
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.