Protecting Our Health from Microplastics: My Journey from the Lab to the Public

Microplastics are everywhere. Tiny fragments of plastic, smaller than a grain of sand, infiltrating our environment and, increasingly, our bodies. As a DOROTHY research fellow at University College Dublin and Ghent University, my work focuses on understanding how micro(nano)plastics affect the human digestive system and developing accessible methods to detect their presence in human cells. I’m excited to share an update on my research and the journey I’ve had over the past few months, taking my work from the lab bench to international conferences and community engagement.

Shining a Light on Microplastics: SETAC Europe 35th Annual Meeting

In May 2025, I had the privilege of presenting my research at the SETAC Europe 35th Annual Meeting, held from 11–15 May. My presentation, titled “Investigation of Fluorescent Polystyrene Uptake in Caco-2 Cells Using Microplate Readers”, showcased a novel, accessible method for detecting microplastic uptake in human intestinal cells. The method uses fluorescence to track how microplastics interact with cells, offering a cost-effective and scalable approach for researchers worldwide. The conference was a whirlwind of inspiration and connection. I engaged with international experts in toxicology and environmental science, receiving valuable feedback that will refine my work. I also attended sessions on emerging contaminants and the role of artificial intelligence in toxicology, which broadened my perspective on how we can tackle the microplastic crisis. These discussions reinforced the urgency of addressing micro(nano)plastic pollution and its far-reaching impacts.

Bringing Science to Life at the UCD Festival

Public engagement is at the heart of my DOROTHY fellowship, and on 7th June 2025, I had the joy of participating in the UCD Festival. My session, “Plastic & Microplastic – Sorting Tech & Interactive Learning”, brought families and children into the world of microplastics through hands-on demonstrations and interactive games. Watching kids’ faces light up as they sorted plastics and learned about recycling was a reminder of why I do this work. By making science fun and accessible, we sparked conversations about reducing plastic waste and protecting our environment. It was a day of connection, education, and hope for a cleaner future.

Raising Awareness in the Irish Independent

Microplastics aren’t just an environmental issue, they’re a human health concern. In a recent Irish Independent newspaper, titled “Stay Well: Should I be worried about microplastics and can I reduce my exposure?”, I shared insights into how microplastics infiltrate our ecosystems and bodies. Primary microplastics, like microbeads from cosmetics, flow into wastewater systems, while secondary microplastics form from degraded plastics like litter or lost fishing gear. These particles disrupt ecosystems by inhibiting microorganisms crucial for nutrient cycling and energy flow. More alarmingly, recent studies such as those presented at the ESHRE Annual Meeting have detected microplastics in human reproductive fluids, raising concerns about their impact on metabolism, inflammation, gut health, and reproduction. My message to readers was clear: microplastics are a widespread challenge, but small actions, like reducing single-use plastics and supporting better waste management, can make a difference.

Sharing My Knowledge on YouTube

To reach a broader audience, I recently published a YouTube video titled “Invisible Threat: Microplastics in Your Daily Life”. The video breaks down the science of microplastics in an engaging, accessible way, exploring how these tiny particles sneak into our food, water, and air. From explaining their sources to highlighting their health risks, the video aims to empower viewers to take action. Sharing my research through digital platforms has been a powerful way to connect with global audiences and spark meaningful conversations.

Looking Ahead

My journey with DOROTHY has been about more than just lab work. It’s about connecting science with people. From presenting at international conferences to engaging families at UCD festivals, contributing to media discussions, and creating digital content, I’m committed to raising awareness about micro(nano)plastics and their impact on human health. As I continue my research, I’m excited to explore new detection methods, collaborate with experts, and inspire action to protect our bodies and our planet from this invisible threat.

You can follow my research journey on LinkedIn and watch my explanatory video on YouTube to learn more about the invisible world of microplastics.