New imaging method maps microplastics inside living tissue

Scientists have developed a non-invasive imaging technique that locates microplastic particles inside living tissue. The method directs pulses of laser light into the body, where the particles absorb the light and emit high-frequency sound waves that form detailed maps.

Researchers tested the approach on mice that received an injection equivalent to half a grain of salt of microplastics. The particles included polypropylene from food containers and coffee cups, and polyethylene from single-use plastic bags.

Study details The work was published in the journal Advanced Science.

It shows the technique can track particles deep in tissue over months without chemical labeling or tissue removal. A researcher from University College London Medicine noted that microplastics are present in food, drink, clothing, and home furnishings, and that prior methods required biopsies or dissection.

Another researcher from Kingston University London said the approach could also examine how surgical implants such as hernia meshes behave inside the body. The study involved teams from University College London, Kingston University, and the University of Birmingham.