Ecosystem ; Environmental Monitoring ; Humans ; Microplastics* / toxicity ; Plastics / toxicity ; Republic of Korea ; Water Pollutants, Chemical* / analysis ; Water Pollutants, Chemical* / toxicity
Keywords
Microplastic ; environmental pollutants ; health effect ; human exposure ; multipathway ; waste management
Abstract
Microplastics are environmental pollutants that prevail in the oceans, remote islands, and polar regions. Exposure to microplas tics presents a major emerging threat to the ecosystems due to their potential adverse effects. Herein, we reviewed the literature to provide an up-to-date synopsis of the current understanding of the sources, compositions, and adverse effects of microplastics in humans and the environment. Most studies on microplastics have focused on developing standardized methods for monitor ing the occurrence, distribution, and movement of microplastics in the environment, as well as developing microplastic substi tutes; however, although humans are exposed to microplastics via various routes, research on the adverse effects of microplastics in humans remains limited. Little is known about the impact of microplastics on human health and the toxic effects that may vary depending on the type, size, shape, and concentration of microplastics. Therefore, more research is needed to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of microplastic toxicity and related pathologies.
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5940-5649