Nanoplastics may weaken antibiotics, risking superbug surge

Scientists warn that the presence of nanoplastics in our environment may impact the effectiveness of antibiotics. New research published in Nature indicates that plastic particles can bind with tetracycline, reducing effectiveness. This process may potentially contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

According to the latest research from an international team of scientists, plastic nanoparticles present in the environment and the human body can interact with antibiotics, reducing their efficacy. Using advanced computer models, researchers discovered that tetracycline—an antibiotic for respiratory, skin, and intestinal infections—can bind with nanoparticles of commonly used plastics.

The discussion involves materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and nylon 6,6 (N66). These materials are used to produce packaging, textiles, and furniture upholstery. Nano-plastic particles can bind tetracycline, decreasing its biological effectiveness.

Lukas Kenner from the Medical University of Vienna emphasizes that binding with nylon proved to be particularly strong. He points out that the risk present in indoor environments is underestimated.

"The burden of micro- and nanoplastics in these areas is about five times higher than outdoors. Nylon is one reason for this phenomenon—it is released from textiles and enters the body, for example, through breathing," adds Kenner.

The interaction between nanoplastics and tetracycline not only reduces the drug's biological activity but may also lead to the transport of the antibiotic to unintended locations in the body. As a result, there is a loss of the antibiotic's targeted action and a potential occurrence of unwanted side effects in the patient. Scientists also warn that an increase in antibiotic concentration on nanoplastic particles may lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

"At a time when antibiotic resistance is becoming an increasing global threat, such interactions must be considered," adds Prof. Kenner, highlighting another challenge: "If nanoplastics reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics, dosing becomes a huge problem."

Plastic particles are becoming an increasingly significant issue. Scientists continue to discover additional instances of their presence in the human body. Recently, we learned that microplastics have been found in human testicles. Other studies have shown the presence of small plastic particles in the air exhaled by dolphins.