AI Insight
A dietary supplement composed of dead bacteria appears to bind to microplastic particles through attraction to the bacteria's rough surface structures. The mechanism works by preventing microplastic absorption into cells rather than breaking down the plastics themselves. This approach represents a potential method for reducing microplastic accumulation in the human body through natural excretion processes.
Why it matters
Microplastics have been detected throughout human tissues and organs, raising health concerns about their long-term effects. A simple supplement-based intervention could provide an accessible, non-invasive method for reducing microplastic burden in populations worldwide, though effectiveness and safety require further validation.
Understand the Science
A supplement comprised of dead bacteria seems to remove microplastics, and prevent their absorption into cells, by attracting them to the bacteria’s rough surfaces
Source: Supplement that binds to microplastics may remove them from our body