Microplastics in ovarian function and ozone-based mitigation strategies: Emerging evidence and translational implications
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are now recognized as pervasive environmental contaminants with emerging evidence of bioaccumulation in the human reproductive system. Recent studies have detected MPs in human follicular fluid, oocytes, placenta, and semen, raising concerns about potential effects on fertility, gamete quality, and embryo development. Experimental data from animal models and in vitro human studies demonstrate that MPs can induce oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, meiotic spindle disruption, and apoptosis, ultimately impairing fertilization and developmental potential. These findings underscore the urgency of identifying effective strategies to reduce human exposure. Ozone-based water and wastewater treatment technologies are gaining attention as a means to mitigate environmental MPs before human ingestion or contact. Laboratory, pilot-scale, and full-scale plant studies show that ozonation-alone or in combination with granular activated carbon (GAC), coagulation-flocculation, sand filtration, or catalytic oxidation-can remove or degrade a substantial proportion of MPs (up to 96%), with smaller particles often removed more efficiently. Ozone induces surface oxidation and increases hydrophilicity, promoting aggregation and facilitating downstream filtration or sedimentation. While ozonation is less effective than some advanced oxidation processes in complete degradation, it offers the advantage of integration into existing treatment infrastructure. This review…
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