Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the pervasive presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNP) in the environment and their potential accumulation in the human body, leading to various health risks [1][2]. Group 1: Microplastics and Nanoplastics Overview - Microplastics and nanoplastics are found in everyday items such as air, bottled water, food packaging, and takeaway containers, leading to unavoidable exposure and ingestion [2]. - Previous studies indicate that microplastics can disrupt gut microbiota balance and are associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction, inflammation, and immune imbalance [2]. Group 2: Recent Research Findings - A study published on June 10, 2025, in Nature Communications explored the interaction between polystyrene nanoplastics and the intestinal microenvironment [3][4]. - The research team utilized RNA sequencing, transcriptome analysis, and microbiome sequencing to analyze the effects of polystyrene nanoplastics on the gut environment in mice [6]. Group 3: Mechanisms of Impact - The study found that the accumulation of nanoplastics in the mouse gut altered the expression of two microRNAs (miR-501-3p and miR-700-5p), which in turn affected the expression of proteins related to gut barrier integrity (ZO-1 and MUC-13), increasing gut permeability [7]. - Nanoplastics elevated levels of specific microRNAs in extracellular vesicles from goblet cells, disrupting the expression of ZO-1 and inducing dysbiosis in the gut microbiota, particularly increasing the abundance of Ruminococcaceae associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction [8]. Group 4: Implications and Future Research - These findings reveal a mechanism by which nanoplastics can compromise gut integrity and indirectly alter gut microbiota composition, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes, although further research is needed to understand the implications for human health [10].