A genetically modified mouse in which a gene affecting hair growth has been knocked out (left), shown next to a normal lab mouse.

Microplastics Block Blood Flow in Mice Brains, Study Shows

January 28, 2025 | Source: EcoWatch | by Paige Bennett

As microplastics become more and more prevalent, even showing up in seafoodclouds and human testicular tissue, scientists are working to further understand how these plastic particles could impact ecosystems and human health. Based on a new study, scientists are now concerned about how microplastics could affect our brains after finding that the particles can block blood flow in mice brains in the lab.

The study, published in Science Advances, involved the tracking of fluorescent polystyrene in mice blood and brains. The polystyrene, which is common in packaging like clear food containers and insulated beverage cups, was mixed with water and given to the mice. The researchers used miniature two-photon microscopy on mice to track the movement of the microplastics through clear screens placed in their skulls.