The development of the methodologies for MNPLs particle identification and quantification in environmental and biological samples have allowed monitoring of MNPLs in the environment –air, water, and food- and in human exposed populations –occupationally exposed workers-. Concurrently, MNPL representative materials have been prepared to perform a comprehensive hazard assessment of MNPLs using multiple models, test methods, exposure time points, and biological effects. The data generated has been processed by integrative analysis methods to obtain MNPLs' mechanistic insights and to identify key events with the potential to be consolidated as novel biomarkers of MNPLs long-term effects. Finally, all WPs have feed the human risk assessment framework developed in WP7, which has integrated stakeholders' and regulators' input.
Main PlasticHeal achievements
• Obtained a catalogue of real-life MNPLs test materials in the nano range: nPET, nPET-Ti, nPLA. In this last period, the catalogue was complemented with real-life NPLs that were commercially available (PTFE) and available from other Projects (PP-Talc, PVC, PA).
• Developed a PBK model to understand the kinetics (fate, biodistribution) of MNPLs.
• Developed and applied a set of NAMs useful to assess the kinetics and toxicity of MNPLs.
• Identified NPLs hazardous potential: genotoxicity, RT and GIT impairment, gut dysbiosis, inflammasome activation, immune alterations, long-term carcinogenesis.
• Identified NPLs mechanisms of action leading to the observed effects and identified a set of candidate new effect biomarkers. Some of these biomarkers showed useful when applied in a subset of occupationally exposed workers.
• Optimized analytical workflows: FTIR imaging with machine-learning assisted data analysis for MNPL >10 μm, and CRM for MNPL <10 μm (<1 μm). These technologies were successfully applied to the measurement of MNPLs in air and foods (external exposure), and human samples from real-life exposure scenarios (internal exposure).
• Generated exposure and effects human data (textile company, recycling company).
• Developed and applied the risk evaluation framework PlasticRiskCat.
A total of 19 outcomes were defined as Exploitable Results (ERs), with 12 prioritized as Key Exploitable Results (KERs) due to their higher maturity, greater potential for market adoption, and/or significant commercial or societal impact.
In addition, the project has led to the publication of over 50 papers in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating its strong scientific contribution and visibility within the research community.
