Abstract
Background
The human bioaccumulation of micro- and nano-plastics (MNPs) is increasingly being recognised in the aetiology and pathophysiology of human disease. This systematic scoping review provides a comprehensive investigation of studies examining the impacts of MNPs on the human cardiovascular system.
Methods
Five databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Web of Science and EMBASE) were systematically searched.
Results
Thirty-four articles were identified, six of which investigated the presence of MNPs within the human cardiovascular system, including atherosclerotic plaques, saphenous vein tissue, and venous blood. The effect of MNPs on cell lines suggest MNPs are cytotoxic, immunotoxic, and genotoxic.
Discussion
The findings of this review, when evaluated together with additional studies utilising animal models, strongly suggest MNPs currently contribute to global cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In particular, the ability of MNPs to induce endothelial damage, oxy-LDL formation, foam cell development and apoptosis, as well as altering the clotting cascade, has potential implications for vascular diseases. In addition, MNPs may play a role in the aetiology and progression of congenital heart abnormalities, infective pathologies and cardiomyopathies.
Conclusion
Despite an increasing awareness of the ability of MNPs to result in cardiovascular disease and dysfunction, a limited amount of research has been conducted to date characterising the presence of MNPs in the human cardiovascular system. Research is required to understand the extent of this rapidly emerging issue and to develop strategies that will support clinicians to appropriately manage and educate their patients about this issue in the future.