Overview
- University of Rhode Island researchers exposed APOE4 and APOE3 mice to polystyrene micro- and nanoplastics in drinking water for three weeks.
- Particles infiltrated multiple organs including the brain, with APOE4 mice showing Alzheimer’s-like behavioral and memory changes.
- Male APOE4 mice displayed increased center exploration consistent with apathetic behavior, while female APOE4 mice showed impaired novel object recognition.
- APOE3 mice and unexposed APOE4 controls behaved normally, and exposed APOE4 mice showed signs of inflammation associated with neurodegeneration.
- Authors emphasize the mouse findings do not prove human causation and urge expanded funding and regulatory review, citing the proposed Microplastics Safety Act.