Nanoplastics in drinking water harm mice's gut and liver health, study reveals

A new study has uncovered worrying effects of nanoplastics on mice exposed through drinking water. Researchers from INRAE, CNRS, and the University of Lille found that even low doses disrupted gut and liver function. The findings also highlight how diet can worsen or reduce these health impacts.

The team tested three different levels of nanoplastics in the drinking water of mice. At low exposure, the animals showed damage to their intestinal barrier and changes in gut bacteria. Liver function also declined in those given the contaminated water.

The study split the mice into two groups, each fed a different diet. One group received a balanced diet, while the other ate a Western-style diet high in fats and sugars. Results showed that diet played a major role in how severely the nanoplastics affected health. However, the research did not identify specific biological or molecular changes behind the observed damage. The focus remained on measurable effects rather than underlying mechanisms.

The findings suggest that nanoplastics in drinking water could harm gut and liver health, even at low concentrations. Diet appears to influence how much damage occurs, with high-fat, high-sugar diets potentially making effects worse. Further studies may be needed to determine the exact processes involved.