O-280 Unveiling the hidden danger: detection and characterisation of microplastics in human follicular and seminal fluids

Study question Can we detect and characterise the presence and composition of microplastics (MPs) in human follicular (FF) and seminal fluids (SF)? Summary answer Various types of MPs were identified in both male and female reproductive systems, providing essential evidence to evaluate their potential risks to human reproductive health. What is known already Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, have emerged as a pervasive form of pollution in consumer products and the environment. They represent a critical global environmental challenge with significant public health implications. Concerns regarding their impact on the human reproductive system have grown. However, limited data exist on the presence of MPs in human reproductive tissues and their potential effects on oocyte and sperm quality. Study design, size, duration This study evaluated the presence of MPs in the reproductive systems of donors and patients at our centre by analysing their FF and SF. FF samples were obtained from 25 women undergoing follicular aspiration, stored in sterile glass containers, and subsequently frozen. SF samples were collected from 18 men undergoing semen analysis and were similarly stored frozen in glass tubes. Participants/materials, setting, methods The detection of MPs in FF and SF was performed using direct laser infrared microscopy (LDIR). Prior to analysis, the samples were subjected to a mineralisation process with 10% (w/v) potassium hydroxide (KOH) and incubated at 40 °C for 48 hours. As a control, the containers used for sample collection and storage were analysed to confirm the absence of MP contamination. Main results and the role of chance A range of MPs was detected in both FF and SF, including polyamide (PA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polylactic acid (PLA). The overall concentration of MPs was relatively low compared to non-plastic particles but was notably higher in FF than in SF. Specifically, over 50% of FF samples contained PA, PU, and PE, while PTFE and PET were detected in more than 30% of samples. PP, PVC, and PLA were identified in over 20%, with PS observed less frequently. In SF samples, MPs were detected in less than 30% of cases, except for PTFE, which was identified in 56% of samples. Limitations, reasons for caution The limited number of samples analysed, due to the challenges associated with obtaining them, is a key limitation. Expanding the sample size in future studies would strengthen the findings. Additionally, incorporating detailed information on the participants’ lifestyles and consumption habits would provide valuable context. Wider implications of the findings This study demonstrates the presence of MPs in both male and female reproductive systems, likely attributable to their easy entry into the body through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. Further research is urgently needed to elucidate the potential effects of MPs on human reproductive health and fertility. Trial registration number No