Disposable facemask waste combustion emits neuroactive smoke particulate matter

H]GABA, and exocytotic release, and also an increase in the extracellular level of these neurotransmitters. Fluorescent measurements revealed that ROS generation induced by hydrogen peroxide and glutamate receptor agonist kainate decreased in nerve terminals. A decrease in the membrane potential of nerve terminals and isolated neurons, the mitochondrial potential and synaptic vesicle acidification was also shown. Therefore, accidental or intentional utilization of disposable medical facemask waste by combustion results in the release of neuroactive ultrafine particulate matter to the environment, thereby contributing to plastic-associated pollution of air and water resources and neuropathology development and expansion.