Ingested PET microplastics alter the metabolomic profile of the porcine pancreas

Abstract

Abstract Microplastics and their effects on health are a growing concern. While their full impact is not yet known, they are not harmless. Pancreatic diseases are increasingly common, even in children, which was once rare. This study examined pancreatic changes caused by PET microplastics in young organisms. Gilts received low (0.1 g/day) or high (1 g/day) doses of PET microplastics for four weeks, and their pancreases were analyzed using UPLC-MS/MS. Blood insulin levels and other biochemical parameters were also measured. PET microplastics altered physiological processes in the pancreas, increasing glucose, γ-aminobutyric acid, lysophosphatidylcholine, and lysophosphatidylethanolamine levels in tissues. They also elevated blood insulin concentrations and affected in a dose-dependent manner lipase, cholesterol, and calcium levels. These findings suggest that PET microplastics may contribute to insulin resistance and pancreatitis.