Gaps between Laboratory Experiments and Real-World Exposure: Toxicological Assessment of Microplastics Is Based on Inadequate Evidence

Abstract

The global significance of microplastic (MP) toxicity assessment is widely acknowledged. Current studies have enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms behind MP toxicity; however, most research mainly focused on the toxicity of individual MPs, overlooking the environmental complexity that arises from the diversity of MPs and the combined effects of multiple pollutants. Furthermore, a notable gap exists in research concerning low-dose and long-term exposure, which significantly limits the relevance of current toxicity data for risk assessments. To address these challenges, we suggest a more thorough and logical approach to evaluating MP toxicity, including: enhancing the harmonization of methods for detecting and quantifying MPs in various environmental and biological matrixes; leveraging AI to simulate real environmental exposures and to predict the complex interactions between MPs and other environmental factors; and combining insights from environmental science, toxicology, materials science, and other relevant fields to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and real-world conditions. Collectively, these efforts could transform fragmented data into risk intelligence, delivering actionable governance solutions for global MP challenges.