Scheme 1. Effects of Microplastics on the Pathway of Inflow by Human Institution. (A) Representative types of plastics include polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyurethane (PUR), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polylactic acid (PLA), and polybutylene succinate (PBS). (B) Microplastics in the form of microbeads, fibers, and fragments can penetrate through dermal exposure. (C) Ingestion of microplastics through food and drinking water can lead to entry into the gastrointestinal tract. (D) Inhaled microplastics may reach the alveoli, potentially leading to conditions such as emphysema. (E) Circulation through the heart can transport microplastics to blood vessels, liver, lungs, and lymph nodes. (F) Microplastics can also penetrate the brain, reproductive organs, and fetal tissues, impacting the endocrine and nervous systems.
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