Nanoplastics threaten antibiotic potency, sparking resistance fears

Scientists warn that the presence of nanoplastics in our environment could impact the effectiveness of antibiotics. New research published in Nature shows that plastic particles can bind with tetracycline, thus reducing its effectiveness. This process may potentially contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

According to the latest research by an international team of scientists, plastic nanoparticles present in the environment and the human body can interact with antibiotics, reducing their efficacy. Using advanced computer models, researchers discovered that tetracycline—an antibiotic used to treat respiratory, skin, and intestinal infections—can bind with nanoparticles of commonly used plastics.

The study involves materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and nylon 6,6 (N66). These materials are used to produce packaging, textiles, and furniture upholstery. It transpires that nanoplastic particles can bind tetracycline, decreasing its biological effectiveness.

Lukas Kenner from the Medical University of Vienna emphasises that the binding with nylon proved particularly strong. He points out that the risk present in indoor environments is underestimated.

"The burden of micro- and nanoplastics in these areas is about five times higher than outdoors. Nylon is one reason for this phenomenon—it is released from textiles and enters the body, for example, through breathing," Kenner adds.

The interaction between nanoplastics and tetracycline not only reduces the drug's biological activity but may also lead to the transport of the antibiotic to unwanted locations in the body. Consequently, there is a loss of the antibiotic's targeted action and the potential occurrence of unwanted side effects in the patient. Scientists also warn that an increased concentration of antibiotics on nanoplastic particles may lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Professor Kenner adds, "At a time when antibiotic resistance is becoming an increasing global threat, such interactions must be considered. If nanoplastics reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics, dosing becomes a huge problem."

Plastic particles are becoming an increasingly significant issue. Scientists continue to discover more instances of their presence in the human body. Recently, microplastics have been found in human testicles. Other studies have shown the presence of small plastic particles in the air exhaled by dolphins.