Microplastics in the liver of people with cirrhosis and portal hypertension
Official title: The Impact of Microplastics and Nanoplastics on Liver Health and Cardiovascular Diseases in India
Run by Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh · NCT07280390 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether microplastics and nanoparticles accumulate in the livers of adults with cirrhosis and portal hypertension who are undergoing surgery or transplant, to understand where they go and what form they take.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Chandigarh, Chandigarh and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | January 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | February 25, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 15, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07280390 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18-70 with cirrhosis and portal hypertension who are undergoing elective liver surgery or transplantation.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients whose liver tissue shows no microplastic deposition or who do not receive additional diagnostic information beyond standard care may not benefit directly.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study analyzes liver tissue from adults with cirrhosis and portal hypertension who are undergoing elective surgery or liver transplantation. The researchers will use histology and electron microscopy to detect microplastics and identify their polymer types (e.g., PS, PE, PP, PVC, PET, PC, PMMA) and deposition sites within liver cells and structures. If microplastics are found in the liver, they will look for evidence of systemic distribution by examining spleen and kidney tissues. The goal is to clarify where microplastics accumulate and how they might relate to liver pathology in cirrhosis. Findings will inform understanding of environmental plastic exposure risks for patients with advanced liver disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If microplastics are found to accumulate in the liver or other organs, this could guide future research on exposure reduction and potential clinical implications for patients with cirrhosis.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have detected microplastics in human tissues and environmental samples, but direct characterization in cirrhotic liver tissue is relatively novel and exploratory.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age range of 18-70 years * Cirrhosis, as diagnosed by histology or clinical, laboratory and USG findings. * Undergoing elective surgery or liver transplantation Exclusion Criteria: * • Hepatocellular carcinoma * Pregnancy or lactation * Patients with HIV or retroviral therapy * Prior liver interventions like locoregional therapy, presence of HCC, prior abdominal surgery
Where it's running
-
Dr. Madhumita Premkumar
Chandigarh, Chandigarh, India Recruiting -
PGIMER Chandigarh
Chandigarh, Chandigarh, India Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Madhumita Premkumar — PGIMER Chandigarh
- Study coordinator: Madhumita Premkumar, MD DM
- Email: drmadhumitap@gmail.com
- Phone: 01722754777
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.