Microplastics Spur Cancerous Changes in Lung Cells
New study reveals alarming impact of everyday plastics on healthy lung tissue
Tiny plastic particles, a pervasive environmental contaminant, have been found to induce potentially cancerous transformations in healthy lung cells, according to groundbreaking research from MedUni Vienna. This discovery highlights a significant, previously under-recognized health risk associated with microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs).
Harmful Effects on Healthy Lung Tissue
Researchers meticulously examined the interaction between polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics (PS-MNPs), commonly found in items like food packaging and disposable cups, and various types of lung cells. Surprisingly, the study found that healthy lung cells absorbed smaller PS-MNPs more readily than malignant cancer cells. This absorption triggered concerning biological responses.
After exposure, healthy cells exhibited increased migration, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and the activation of growth-promoting signaling pathways. These are all considered early indicators of cancer development.
The lungs are a major entry point for microplastics, and new research reveals how these tiny particles can cause damage. https://t.co/0h1F4M0L9g #PublicHealth #Environment #Science
— World Today News (@WorldTodayNews) June 8, 2025
“Particularly striking was the reduced ability of healthy cells to repair DNA damage and the simultaneous activation of certain signalling pathways that normally promote cell growth,” stated study leader Karin Schelch.
Early Warning Signs of Cancer
While lung cancer cells appeared less affected by short-term exposure, the impact on healthy cells is a cause for significant concern. These cellular changes suggest a potential pathway from plastic exposure to chronic lung disease and cancer.
The data now available provide initial indications that healthy lung cells in particular react in a way that gives cause for concern.
—Balazs Döme, Co-Study Leader
The research also noted that the cells’ defense mechanisms were activated, indicating a struggle against the stress induced by the plastic particles. “We observed the activation of antioxidant defence systems – an indication that the cells are actively defending themselves against the stress caused by plastic particles,” explained first author Büsra Ernhofer.
The findings underscore the urgent need to address plastic waste and its broader health implications. The long-term consequences of MNP exposure on lung health require immediate and thorough investigation, highlighting the critical intersection of environmental medicine and cancer biology.
A recent report from the World Health Organization estimates that individuals can inhale up to 15,000 plastic particles per day from the air alone (WHO, 2022). This new research provides a critical piece in understanding the biological impact of this pervasive inhalation.
