Molecular Toxicology of Nano- and Microplastics: Mechanisms of Cellular Disruption and Biochemical Pathways
A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Toxicology".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 March 2026
Special Issue Editor
Interests: anesthesia and intensive care; human microbiota; metabolomics; respiratory diseases; mechanical ventilation; respiratory emergencies/urgencies; xenobiotic poisoning; history and ethics of medicine
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
The widespread presence of nano- and microplastics (NMP) in the environment presents an escalating threat to public health. The toxicological impact of NMP on human health can occur through the disruption of biochemical mechanisms that regulate homeostasis. Specifically, this includes dysregulation of immune functions, the endocrine system, the central and peripheral nervous systems, metabolism, microbiota balance, and the metabolome. Furthermore, scientific evidence indicates a direct involvement of NMPs in oxidative stress and epigenetic modifications. Originating from primary sources (industrial production) or secondary sources (degradation of larger plastics), NMPs are found in air, water, food, and even human tissues. Once internalized, NMPs can cross biological barriers and accumulate in tissues, disrupting essential cellular processes. These disruptions impair cellular function and biochemical reactions, creating conditions that favor chronic diseases and potentially carcinogenic outcomes. Additionally, NMPs can act as carriers for other environmental contaminants, thereby enhancing their toxicity.
We welcome submissions related to the theme of this Special Issue
Dr. Ioannis Alexandros Charitos
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- nanoplastics
- microplastics (NMP)
- toxicology
- toxicological impact
- human health
- human microbiota
- metabolome
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