Mechanisms of microplastics on gastrointestinal injury and liver metabolism disorder (Review).

With the high production and use of plastic products, a large amount of microplastics (MPs) is generated by degradation, which causes environmental pollution. MPs are particles with a diameter <5 mm; further degradation of MPs produces nano‑plastics (NPs), which could further increase the damage to cells when entering the human body. Therefore, the present review summarizes the effect of MP and NP deposition on the human gastrointestinal tract and the underlying injury mechanism of oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, as well as the potential mechanism of glucose and liver lipid metabolism disorder. The present review provides a theoretical basis for research on the mechanisms of MPs in gastrointestinal injury and liver metabolism disorder. Further studies are needed for prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases caused by MPs and NPs.