Scientists can now map where microplastics have gathered in the body

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleScientists have developed a breakthrough non-invasive method to detect microplastics deep within living tissue, addressing a long-standing challenge in studying their impact on human health. The technique, known as photoacoustic imaging, directs laser light pulses into tissue, which are absorbed by microplastics to create high-frequency soundwaves, allowing for detailed mapping without the need for surgery or biopsies. Led by Dr Stephen Patrick from University College London (UCL), the study, published in Advanced Science, successfully demonstrated the method by tracking injected microplastics in mice. This new approach enables researchers to study where microplastics accumulate in the body, how long they persist, and their potential contribution to diseases affecting organs like the brain and blood vessels. The method can detect common microplastics such as polypropylene and polyethylene and holds promise for assessing the behaviour of other plastics, including those used in surgical implants. In fullThe breakthrough tests that could map where microplastics have clustered in your bodyThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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