Rapid review assesses microplastics impacts on human cells and reports thresholds of effects lower than previously predicted; scientific study finds polystyrene (PS) microplastics to have nephrotoxic potential; reproduction and fertility study with mice reports PS microplastics to affect females more than males
Liver tumors in BPA exposed mice
New study finds liver tumors in BPA exposed mice, first to detect tumors rather than precancerous lesions
BPA can alter parenting behavior in mice
A new study finds that early exposure to BPA reduces parental care in mice
BPA causes metabolic changes at low, but not at high dose
New study investigates effects of prenatal BPA exposure on metabolism in vivo
Low dose BPA effects
Animal study at National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark finds low doses of BPA affect body weight and behavior in female rats, as well as mammary gland growth and sperm count in male rats
First proposals put forward for global treaty to end plastic pollution
Countries are submitting proposals to the UN Environment Program to guide Plastics Treaty development; US proposes treaty focus on downstream effects – reuse and recycling; proposal from 40-nation ‘high ambition coalition’ proposes setting up limits on polymer production, eliminating certain polymers and products; over 60 proposals received so far; stakeholder registration is open for the next negotiating meeting for the Plastics Treaty in Paris, France in May 2023
Microplastics impacts on the reproductive system and offspring
Scientists report human-relevant polystyrene (PS) microplastic concentrations change mice placental metabolism; show nanoplastics have variable effects on placental enzymes using simulations; find pre- and postnatal PS microplastic exposure affects male mice testis development and fertility; recommend future research to analyze multigenerational effects
Study reports microplastics induce reproductive toxicity in pregnant mice
Research study finds polystyrene microplastics exposure of pregnant mice leads to fetal losses by immune disturbance; book chapter estimates human chemical exposure via seafood contaminated with microplastics
BPA exposure may affect heart health in sex-specific manner
U.S. researchers find heart function and blood pressure in mice to be affected by BPA exposure, females appear to be at increased risk for harm
BPA linked to gender specific, anxiety-like behavior, raises critical voices
New study investigates epigenetic changes caused by perinatal BPA exposure