Applications of Stem Cells and Modern Toxicological Analytical Methods in the Toxicity of Microplastics

Microplastics (MPs) are an emerging environmental pollutant, and their contamination has emerged as a pressing global environmental concern. Developmental processes exhibit heightened sensitivity to environmental perturbations, and MP exposure can induce long-term adverse effects on organismal health by disrupting fundamental cellular processes. This review focuses on the toxicity and developmental toxicity risks of microplastics investigated using stem cell models. The core section comprehensively summarizes the primary mechanisms through which MP exposure interferes with the biological functions of stem cells, including the impairment of self-renewal capacity and lineage specification, as well as the inhibition of tissue-specific differentiation and organogenesis. Finally, the integration and application of modern toxicological methods in deepening research and improving risk assessment capabilities are synthesized. This review aims to provide a systematic perspective to understand the developmental hazards of MPs and look forward to future risk studies based on stem cell modeling, providing theoretical basis and fundamental support.