Nuclear and Mitochondrial Epigenetic Mechanisms Underlying Neurodegeneration and Gut–Brain Axis Dysregulation Induced by Micro- and Nanoplastics

Microplastics and nanoplastics may disrupt the microbiota-gut-brain axis and lower the threshold for neurodegeneration in susceptible individuals.

• Microplastics and nanoplastics could traverse biological barriers and disrupt gut microbiota.
• These particles may lead to systemic inflammation and contribute to neurodegenerative processes.
• Experimental models show that exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics affects epigenetic regulation in gut, immune, and neural cells.
• Alterations in synaptic function, neuronal survival, and protein aggregation may result from exposure to these environmental pollutants.
• There is emerging evidence suggesting that microplastics and nanoplastics compromise intestinal barrier integrity and affect the blood-brain barrier.

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