Probiotic strain from high-excretion donors reduces gut microplastic accumulation in mice

Researchers identified a probiotic strain, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum PD01, from humans with high microplastic excretion that significantly reduces microplastic accumulation in the gut, offering a potential natural defense against plastic toxicity. In a study of 138 people, gut microbiota differences linked to microplastic excretion led to isolating PD01 from a high-excretion donor. In mice fed a mixed-microplastic diet, PD01 reduced remaining intestinal plastics by up to 91.35% for polystyrene, while also improving gut barrier integrity and reducing inflammation. The probiotic demonstrated strong microplastic adsorption in lab tests and protected intestinal cells from damage. The findings propose a probiotic intervention strategy to combat microplastic accumulation and toxicity in the body, addressing a growing food safety concern.