The Uptake and Distribution Evidence of Nano- and Microplastics in vivo after a Single High Dose of Oral Exposure.

ABSTRACT

Objective: Tissue uptake and distribution of nano-/microplastics was studied at a single high dose by gavage in vivo. Methods: Fluorescent microspheres (100 nm, 3 µm, and 10 µm) were given once at a dose of 200 mg/(kg∙body weight). The fluorescence intensity (FI) in observed organs was measured using the IVIS Spectrum at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 h after administration. Histopathology was performed to corroborate these findings. Results: In the 100 nm group, the FI of the stomach and small intestine were highest at 0.5 h, and the FI of the large intestine, excrement, lung, kidney, liver, and skeletal muscles were highest at 4 h compared with the control group ( P < 0.05). In the 3 µm group, the FI only increased in the lung at 2 h ( P < 0.05). In the 10 µm group, the FI increased in the large intestine and excrement at 2 h, and in the kidney at 4 h ( P < 0.05). The presence of nano-/microplastics in tissues was further verified by histopathology. The peak time of nanoplastic absorption in blood was confirmed. Conclusion: Nanoplastics translocated rapidly to observed organs/tissues through blood circulation; however, only small amounts of MPs could penetrate the organs.