Abstrakt: |
A recent report from the University of L'Aquila in Italy explores the biological effects and carcinogenic potential of nanopolystyrene, a type of plastic commonly used in food packaging. The researchers used Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) as a model organism and found that prolonged exposure to polystyrene nanoparticles led to the accumulation of these particles in the flies' gut and fat bodies. The flies also experienced alterations in weight, developmental time, lifespan, and motor activity, as well as an elevated expression of genes associated with cell damage. Additionally, the researchers discovered that exposed flies had more aberrant masses, suggesting a potential carcinogenic effect. These findings highlight the impact of ingested nanopolystyrene on organisms, leading to metabolic and genetic modifications that can delay development and accelerate death and disease. [Extracted from the article] |