Microplastics: A bacterium found in kimchi is attracting the interest of researchers

Faced with the increasing presence of microplastics in the environment and in the human body, South Korean researchers are exploring new ways to limit their accumulation. A study conducted by the World Institute of Kimchi highlights the potential of a bacterium naturally present in the famous Korean fermented food. The results suggest that it could help eliminate certain plastic particles before they are absorbed by the body.

Scientists are particularly interested in nanoplastics, extremely fine particles resulting from the degradation of plastic. Because of their microscopic size, they can cross certain biological barriers and end up in various organs of the body. Their long-term impact on human health is currently the subject of extensive research worldwide.

A bacterial strain capable of trapping particles

The study focused on a lactic acid bacterium called Leuconostoc mesenteroides CBA3656isolated from kimchi. In experiments conducted under conditions replicating the human intestinal environment, this strain demonstrated a strong ability to bind to nanoplastics. Researchers observed that this property remained effective despite variations in temperature, acidity, or particle concentration.

According to the authors of the study, this bacterium could act as a veritable biological trap within the intestine. By binding to nanoplastics, it would promote their natural elimination before they cross the intestinal wall and accumulate in the body.

Encouraging results in mice

To further their research, the scientists tested this probiotic strain on mice raised in a germ-free environment. The animals that received the bacteria had significantly higher levels of nanoplastics in their feces than the mice in the control group.

Researchers observed a more than doubling of the particles eliminated in treated animals. These observations reinforce the hypothesis that certain probiotics could help reduce the body's microplastic burden by preventing their intestinal absorption.

A promising lead that needs confirmation

Despite these encouraging results, experts urge caution. The experiments were conducted primarily in laboratories and on animal models. It therefore remains to be demonstrated that the same mechanisms function with the same effectiveness in humans.

The researchers also emphasize that kimchi is not a miracle solution to plastic pollution. Exposure to microplastics remains constant through food, water, and the environment. However, this discovery opens a novel avenue of research in a field where preventative solutions are still limited. Future clinical trials should determine whether certain probiotics can actually help reduce the accumulation of nanoplastics in the human body.