Suvi Linna-Kuosmanen

Recent studies have shown that human tissues contain plastic. Especially concerning are the findings that suggest a correlation between an increased environmental load and tissue accumulation, as plastics may accumulate more to sick tissue compared to healthy and lead to increased patient mortality. In my research group, we investigate plastics in the human cardiac tissue and estimate the effects of plastic exposure in the cardiac cell and tissue environment in regards to the development/progression of cardiovascular disease. We suggest a “sand in a sock” paradigm, where in the healthy state the plastics are mostly tolerated via slight adaptations of the system to their presence. Upon injury, the tissue environment changes drastically, triggering detrimental effects on the weakened system, allowing additional plastic entry, and further damage. In addition to disease mechanisms, the information gathered in our studies may contribute to new environmental policies that could have an immediate impact on the lives of millions of people.