Uncovering the Interactions Between Macrophages and Microplastics: Scientists Make a Breakthrough
A new discovery by scientists has revealed that macrophages, a type of immune cell, may be able to interact with microplastics in the environment. Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic debris that have been found in marine and freshwater environments around the world. The research, published in Science Advances, provides insight into how microplastics may be affecting our health and the environment.
The study found that macrophages are able to take up and break down microplastics in the environment, in a process called phagocytosis. The researchers suggest that this process could play an important role in the accumulation of microplastics in the environment, and may even be a potential source of microplastic-derived pollutants in our food and water. This could have significant implications for human health and the environment.
source: Phys.org