Microplastic exposure linked to accelerated aging and impaired adipogenesis in fat cells

Abstract

Our research explores the detrimental effects of microplastic (MP) exposure on adipose tissue aging and function, emphasizing the potential health risks associated with environmental pollutants. Utilizing both in vivo and in vitro models, we discovered that MPs accumulate in adipose tissues, leading to cellular senescence, inflammation, and hindered adipogenic differentiation. Notably, our findings demonstrate that MPs prompt an aging response in both epididymal and inguinal white adipose tissue, increase senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity, and upregulate key senescence and inflammatory markers. Furthermore, we show that MPs disrupt normal adipogenic differentiation by reducing lipid droplet formation and downregulating critical adipogenic markers. These insights highlight the urgent need for further investigation into the long-term consequences of MP pollution on biological aging and underscore the importance of developing public health strategies to mitigate these effects.