Factores de riesgo asociados a la exposición de micronanoplásticos en la formación de placa ateroma

Environmental pollution is a global challenge that does not leave us indifferent; its effects extend beyond the environment to involve our health as a whole. Among the main culprits are microplastics and nanoplastics, those tiny fragments that have made our planet a more dangerous place for humans. These particles not only wreak havoc on ecosystems, but also have a significant impact on cardiovascular disease, which is closely linked to the formation of atherosclerotic plaque, a crucial stage in the development of these conditions. In our study, we examined the interaction between environmental factors, such as exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics, and behavioural factors, such as diet, sedentary lifestyle and smoking, and how these elements combined affect vascular function and contribute to atherosclerotic plaque formation. Microplastics and nanoplastics enter our bodies through multiple pathways: we consume them in our food and contaminated water; we inhale them in the air we breathe; and also through our skin. These particles are incredibly long-lasting; they are found in our food, drinking water and in the products we use every day. Once inside, these pollutants trigger a chain effect. They generate oxidative stress, cause chronic inflammation and damage blood vessels, all of which contribute to the development of atherosclerosis. Moreover, these factors do not act in isolation. They also interact with our lifestyle choices. For example, a diet rich in saturated fats can increase the bioaccumulation of microplastics in our digestive system; while smoking facilitates vascular damage by releasing plastic particles from cigarette filters. From a molecular perspective, the impact of these pollutants is even more complex. They stimulate key inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB-NLRP3-GSDMD, and cause damage to mitochondria; these cause foam cells to form, which are essential for the creation of atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, these microscopic plastics do not come alone; they often bring with them chemical contaminants such as Bisphenol A and phthalates, which act as endocrine disruptors and further exacerbate their harmful effects. Despite significant advances in research on these issues, there are still many aspects to be explored, especially the long-term effects of microplastic exposure on our cardiovascular diseases. It is therefore crucial to continue to standardise detection methods; to expand long-term studies; and to design preventive strategies that combine lifestyle changes with the regulation of plastic use.