Micro- and nanoplastic as new modifiable cardiovascular risk factors

Environmental pollution by microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) is becoming a global problem. Accumulated evidence indicates the potential adverse effect of these particles on the cardiovascular system. Objective. To summarize current data on the mechanisms of impact of microplastics and nanoplastics on the cardiovascular system, their role in the development of atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and myocardial injury, and to discuss potential therapeutic strategies. Materials and methods. An analysis of foreign and domestic (Russian) publications in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and eLibrary databases for 2014—2025 was performed using the following keywords: microplastics, nanoplastics, cardiovascular diseases, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, cardiomyocytes, inflammation. Results. The review systematizes data on three main types of cardiotoxic effects of MNPs: lipid metabolism and atherogenesis disorders, hemostatic system dysfunction with increased thrombogenic risk, and direct damage to cardiomyocytes. The role of oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome activation, mitochondrial dysfunction and autophagy disorders is shown. The influence of MNPs as carriers of toxicants (bisphenol A, heavy metals) is considered separately. Conclusion. Accumulated evidence indicates that microplastics and nanoplastics are a new risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Further research is needed to clarify the molecular mechanisms and develop prevention and treatment strategies.