- Scientists have developed a breakthrough non-invasive method to detect microplastics deep within living tissue, addressing a long-standing challenge in studying their impact on human health.
- The technique, known as photoacoustic imaging, directs laser light pulses into tissue, which are absorbed by microplastics to create high-frequency soundwaves, allowing for detailed mapping without the need for surgery or biopsies.
- Led by Dr Stephen Patrick from University College London (UCL), the study, published in Advanced Science, successfully demonstrated the method by tracking injected microplastics in mice.
- This new approach enables researchers to study where microplastics accumulate in the body, how long they persist, and their potential contribution to diseases affecting organs like the brain and blood vessels.
- The method can detect common microplastics such as polypropylene and polyethylene and holds promise for assessing the behaviour of other plastics, including those used in surgical implants.
IN FULL
