Low-dose nanoplastics in water harm gut and liver health, study finds

A new study has revealed that even low doses of nanoplastics in drinking water can harm gut and liver health in mice. Researchers from INRAE, CNRS, and the University of Lille carried out the work, testing how different diets affected the results.

The team exposed mice to three varying levels of nanoplastics through their drinking water. Those on a balanced diet showed some damage, but the effects were far worse for animals fed a Western-style diet high in fats and sugars.

The nanoplastics disrupted the intestinal barrier and altered the gut microbiome. Liver function also declined in exposed mice, though the study did not pinpoint the exact biological mechanisms behind these changes. While the findings highlight a clear link between nanoplastics and organ damage, the researchers did not explore specific molecular changes in the gut or liver. Separate speculation suggests chronic inflammation—possibly triggered by gut microbiome shifts or environmental pollutants like microplastics—could play a role in rising colorectal cancer rates among young adults. However, this study did not examine that connection directly.

The results confirm that nanoplastics, even at low levels, can impair gut and liver function in mice. Diet appears to worsen the effects, with high-fat, high-sugar intake increasing harm. Further research may be needed to understand the exact processes behind these changes.