Microplastics in food cause sleep disorders in fruit flies. It also creates an environment that does not directly harm the brain but contributes to the organ’s dysfunction, as shown in a study published in the journal Nature. Zoological Research.
Scientists studied the effects of microplastics on flies at different developmental stages, ranging from two to 10 weeks old, by adding different concentrations of microplastic particles to their food.
The experiment showed that exposure to microplastics caused intestinal damage, sleep disorders, shrinkage of the ovaries, and a shorter life expectancy. Although the microplastics did not penetrate the flies’ brains or ovaries, they did impair the functioning of these organs. This may be due to the inflammation and metabolic disorders the scientists observed.
According to the UN, more than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually and tens of millions of tonnes of plastic waste pollute oceans around the world.
The study found that the harm from microplastics goes far beyond the understandable effects of the pollutant on the organ it enters. This highlights how microplastics pose a complex health threat. While the results of the study cannot be transferred to humans, the scientists stressed that ways to reduce environmental pollution must be found as soon as possible.
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Source: Gazeta
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