Evaluation of the presence of microplastics at different levels of biological organization: a systematic review of the literature
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62305/alcon.v6i5.1310Keywords:
bioaccumulation; environmental pollution; ecosystems; microplastics; biological organizationAbstract
Microplastics are among the most concerning emerging pollutants due to their widespread distribution in ecosystems, persistence, and ability to interact with living organisms. These particles can become incorporated into biological systems and generate potential effects on various physiological and ecological processes. This study aims to analyze the available scientific evidence on the presence and effects of microplastics at different levels of biological organization through a systematic review of the literature published between 2022 and 2026. A structured search was conducted in international scientific databases, applying pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The selected studies demonstrate the presence of microplastics from the cellular and tissue levels to organisms, populations, and ecosystems. Among the main reported effects are oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, metabolic alterations, reproductive impairments, and particle transfer through food chains. This evidence suggests that microplastic pollution represents an environmental stressor that could compromise the health of organisms.
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