Investigating the health effects of micro-nanoplastics in the body
Official title: 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
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10996862 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny plastic particles, called micro-nanoplastics, get into our bodies and what effects they might have on our health, so we can better understand the risks they pose to everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $637,553 |
| NIH project number | 1R01ES036043-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996862 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to environments with high levels of micro-nanoplastics, such as those living near industrial areas or consuming contaminated food.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have no history of exposure to micro-nanoplastics or related environmental contaminants may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how micro-nanoplastics (MNPs), tiny plastic particles found in our environment and food, are absorbed by the body and their potential health impacts. The study will use advanced cellular and animal models to track how these particles move through the body, where they accumulate, and how they may cause inflammation or toxicity. By understanding these processes, the research aims to fill critical gaps in knowledge regarding the risks associated with MNP exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of health risks associated with micro-nanoplastics exposure.
How similar studies have gone: While there is emerging research on the effects of microplastics, this specific investigation into their biodistribution and toxicity in humans is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
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.