Original Source: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envint.2020.106274
- Microplastics are small particles which came from the degradation of plastic objects present in the environment.
- Microplastics can travel from the environment to living organisms including humans.
- Italian researchers analyzed six human placentas to evaluate the presence of microplastics.
- Twelve microplastic fragments ranging from 5 to 10 micrometers were found in 4 placentas.
- Five microplastics were found in the fetal side.
- Four microplastics were found in the maternal side.
- Three microplastics were found in the chorioamniotic membranes.
- Chorioamniotic membranes are the amnion and the chorion, which make up the amniotic sac that surrounds and protects the fetus.
- All of the microplastics were pigmented.
- Three were identified as stained polypropylene, a widely used thermoplastic polymer.
- The other nine could not be specifically identified but partial data suggest origins include man-made coatings, paints, adhesives, plasters, finger paints, cosmetics and personal care products.
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