Recent studies conducted by researchers at The University of Texas at El Paso have shed light on the detrimental effects of nanoplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on human health. These manmade compounds, commonly referred to as forever chemicals, have been found to disrupt biomolecular structure and function, potentially causing developmental issues downstream. Nanoplastics are a byproduct of the degradation of larger plastic materials, while forever chemicals can be found in various everyday products.
The UTEP research team focused on the impact of nanoplastics and PFAS on three proteins critical to human development: beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, and myoglobin. The findings of their studies, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society and ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, provide valuable insights into how these compounds can alter protein structures at an atomic level.
Effects on Protein Binding
One of the key findings of the research was that nanoplastics and PFAS can disrupt the binding efficiency of proteins to essential nutrients like retinol and fatty acids. For example, beta-lactoglobulin, a protein found in the milk of sheep and cows, is crucial for vision and brain development in infants. Exposure to nanoplastics and PFAS was found to decrease the binding efficiency of this protein, potentially leading to developmental issues in neonatal infants.
Structural Changes in Proteins
Furthermore, the research team revealed that PFAS can bind to milk proteins, altering their structure and potentially compromising lactose formation. This disruption in the structure of alpha-lactalbumin, found in human breast milk, could have downstream effects on infant development, such as compromised immunity and reduced mineral absorption. Similarly, nanoplastics and PFAS were found to compromise the functionality of myoglobin, a protein crucial for storing oxygen, which could lead to health issues such as breathlessness and anemia.
The team also observed that the structural alterations caused by nanoplastics and PFAS are similar to those seen in amyloid proteins, which have been linked to neurodegenerative diseases. These synthetic chemicals have the potential to reach the brain and cause neurotoxic outcomes, highlighting the serious health implications of exposure to nanoplastics and forever chemicals.
The groundbreaking research conducted by Dr. Narayan and his team has the potential to significantly impact public health and environmental policies. Their findings underscore the importance of scientific research in addressing global challenges and developing safer alternatives to harmful materials. Moving forward, the researchers plan to continue their studies and investigate the effects of other plastics and PFAS compounds on human health.
The research conducted by the UTEP team underscores the urgent need to address the risks associated with nanoplastics and forever chemicals. By gaining a better understanding of how these compounds disrupt biomolecular functions, scientists can work towards developing safer alternatives and protecting public health. This study serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous scientific research in identifying and addressing potential health risks in our environment.
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