Eighth Grader Uncovers Surprising Link Between Microplastics and Tumors

Microplastics are everywhere. In the water we drink, the food we eat, and even in our bodies. A 14-year-old discovered something alarming related to these tiny particles during a science project. She wondered what microplastics might do to our immune cells, so she did an experiment. It was discovered that her hypothesis was correct. This young scientist, with the help of a mentor, exposed microplastics to human immune cells. She found that certain immune cells, called monocytes, started to absorb these tiny plastic particles. This discovery wasn't made in a fancy lab, but in a school setting. More testing was done using a 3D cell culture. The results were unexpected. More tumor-like structures were found, suggesting that microplastics could potentially cause cancer. Microplastics have been found in many organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys. This means that a wide range of organs could potentially be at risk. So, how do these microplastics get into our bodies? Mainly through the water we drink and the food we eat. Seafood is a significant source of microplastic exposure. Why? Because the ocean is filled with plastics. The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization observed that there are 50 to 75 trillion pieces of plastic and microplastic in the ocean. This discovery isn't just alarming, but it could also lead to further study and possible treatments for the harmful chemicals found in our bodies from microplastic exposure. This is encouraging. It shows that even young minds can make significant contributions to science. This discovery shows that a young person can make a significant contribution to science. Air purifiers and water filters can help reduce microplastic exposure. In the bigger picture, we need to change our relationship with plastic. This means avoiding single-use plastic when possible, recycling any of the material we do use, and preventing trash from entering vital water sources.