Abstract
Background. In recent years, plastic waste and residuals in different ecosystems have been introduced as serious challenges. Plastics with different chemical structures and derivatives are extensively applied for the packing of foods, pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, and the like. Due to distinct polymeric backbones, plastics are highly resistant to thermooxidative, irradiation degradation, and mechanical stress, resulting in inadequate recycling and accumulation in the environment. These features make plastics threatening pollutants for humans and other living organisms. Simultaneous application of plasticizers and other components during the production of plastics can increase these toxic effects.
Methods. Here, the content and data related to plastic particles toxicity on cardiovascular system indexed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.
Results. Data have indicated that plastic nanoparticles/microparticles induce several pathological conditions following their entry into the body via cutaneous tissue, gastrointestinal ingestion, and inhalation. Plastic particles use different mechanisms to stimulate cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in several organs. The cardiovascular system and mainly endothelial cells are in close contact with circulating plastic particles and subsequent injuries. Endothelial cell cytotoxicity induced by plastic derivatives via different molecular mechanisms was discussed in this review article. The reduction of viability (either autophagy or apoptotic death), mitochondrial injury, oxidative stress, disruption of cell-to-cell integrity, and the like are the main underlying mechanisms in the presence of plastic particles.
Conclusion. These findings help us understand the vascular tissue injury induced by plastic nanoparticles and microparticles and develop preventive and therapeutic approaches.
Practical Implications. Understanding the mechanisms by which plastic particles can exert toxic effects on biological systems, especially the cardiovascular system, is helpful in the prediction of related injuries and pathologies.