The Impact of Microplastics on Biological Systems: A Focus on Extracellular Vesicles and miRNA Profiles

Microplastics (MPs) have become a pervasive environmental pollutant, contaminating terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and making their way into food chains and human biological systems. Their small size and widespread presence in air, water, and soil enable them to be easily ingested or inhaled, leading to bioaccumulation in tissues and organs. Recent research has uncovered that MPs do not merely accumulate passively but actively interact with biological components, including extracellular vesicles (EVs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), both of which play fundamental roles in cellular communication, gene regulation, and homeostasis. MPs have been shown to alter EV cargo composition and disrupt miRNA expression patterns, thereby interfering with key biological pathways involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic processes. These interactions raise concerns about MPs' potential contribution to chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders, neurodegenerative conditions, and metabolic dysfunction. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current understanding of MPs’ impact on biological systems, with a particular emphasis on their interaction with EVs and influence on miRNA profiles. By synthesizing recent research findings, this paper aims to highlight the potential health risks associated with MP exposure, offering insights into emerging mechanisms of toxicity and emphasizing the need for further studies and regulatory interventions to mitigate their harmful effects