Assessing micro and nanoplastics toxicity using rodent models: Investigating potential mitochondrial implications

Mitochondria's role as a central hub in cellular metabolism and signaling cascades is well established in the scientific community, being a classic marker of organisms' response to toxicant exposure. Nonetheless, little is known concerning the effects of emerging contaminants, such as microplastics, on mitochondrial metabolism. Micro- and nanoplastics present one of the major problems faced by modern societies. What was once an environmental problem is now recognized as an one-health issue, but little is known concerning microplastic impact on human health. Indeed, only recently, human exposure to microplastics was acknowledged by the World Health Organization, resulting in a growing interest in this research topic. Nonetheless, the mechanisms behind micro- and nanoplastics toxicity are yet to be understood. Animal models, nowadays, are the most appropriate approach to uncovering this knowledge gap. In the present review article, we explore investigations from the last two years using rodent models and reach to find the molecular mechanism behind micro- and nanoplastics toxicity and if mitochondria can act as a target. Although no research article has addressed the effects of mitochondria yet, reports have highlighted molecular and biochemical alterations that could be linked to mitochondrial function. Furthermore, certain studies described the effects of disruptions in mitochondrial metabolism, such as oxidative stress. Micro- and nanoplastics may, directly and indirectly, affect this vital organelle. Investigations concerning this topic should be encouraged once they can bring us closer to understanding the mechanisms underlying these particles' harmful effects on human health.