Presentation description

Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm, are now recognized as widespread environmental contaminants with potential health risks. Recent evidence shows MPs can infiltrate human and animal tissues, including those of the reproductive system, but their effects on fertility remain poorly understood. This project aims to detect, quantify, and characterize MPs in reproductive tissues and fluids using a mouse model, with a focus on understanding their impact on reproductive outcomes.The research involves collecting water, blood, urine, semen, and reproductive tissues from mice, followed by rigorous sample preparation using sequential alkaline, oxidative, and enzymatic digestion to isolate MPs. Advanced analytical techniques-including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman microscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and flow cytometry-are used to identify, count, and characterize MPs. By establishing and validating sensitive methods for MP analysis in complex biological samples, this work fills a crucial gap in environmental toxicology. The findings will provide insight into the prevalence and risks of MPs in reproductive tissues, inform public health policy, and lay the groundwork for future studies and monitoring efforts in both animal and human populations.