Micro- and nanoplastic particles promote the cell proliferation of colon cancer cells
2024
Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria(1)
University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria(2)
University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria(2)
In the present study, researchers developed 2D and 3D models from human colon cancer cell lines to further study the effects of micro- and nanoplastic particles (MNPs) on the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The models were exposed to MNPs at different concentrations and sizes (0.25, 1 and 10 μm) for 72 hours and then analysed using various in vitro methods. The researchers were able to show that the plastic particles were taken up by all four colon cancer cell lines used (HT29, HCT116, SW480 and SW620). The absorption rate was significantly dependent on the size and concentration of the MNPs. Furthermore, it was observed that the plastic particles persisted in the lysosomes of the cells and were transferred to the daughter cells through cell division. In particular, the smallest particles (0.25 μm) significantly increased cell migration and appeared to promote the spread of metastases. In addition, an enrichment of MNPs was found in the non-proliferating areas of the tumor spheroids, although this did not affect the proliferation and division of the cells. According to the REACH regulation, the persistence and accumulation of microplastic particles are among the most important toxicological characteristics of chemical substances. The results therefore emphasize the importance of the need for further research into MNPs as catalysts for the growth and spread of tumor cells, as well as other potentially harmful influences on humans and the environment.
Microplastics role in cell migration and distribution during cancer cell division
Lukas Kenner(1), Verena Pichler(2)
Added on: 03-13-2024
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0045653524003564?via%3Dihub[2] https://www.bionity.com/en/news/1182908/micro-and-nanoplastics-in-the-body-are-passed-on-during-cell-division.html
