NYU Langone Researchers Uncover Microplastics in Prostate Cancer Tumors

A groundbreaking pilot study from NYU Langone Health has revealed the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics (collectively known as MNPs) in nearly all prostate cancer tumors examined. Led by urologist Stacy Loeb, MD, and environmental chemist Vittorio Albergamo, PhD, both from NYU Grossman School of Medicine, the research analyzed tissue samples from 10 patients undergoing radical prostatectomy—a surgical procedure to remove the entire prostate gland. Remarkably, MNPs were detected in 90 percent of tumor samples and 70 percent of adjacent benign prostate tissue, with concentrations in cancerous areas averaging 2.5 times higher than in healthy tissue: approximately 40 micrograms per gram in tumors versus 16 micrograms per gram in noncancerous samples.

This discovery marks one of the first direct assessments in Western populations linking ubiquitous plastic particles to prostate cancer, the most common malignancy among American men. Funded by the U.S. Department of Defense and presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Genitourinary Cancers Symposium, the findings underscore the growing role of university-led interdisciplinary research in uncovering environmental health risks.

Rigorous Methods Ensure Reliable Detection

To combat the challenge of contamination—a common pitfall in microplastics research—the NYU team implemented stringent protocols. Tissue samples were processed using non-plastic tools made from aluminum and cotton, handled in specialized clean rooms, and analyzed with advanced techniques to identify particle quantity, chemical composition, and structure among 12 common plastic polymers like polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride. By comparing tumor and benign tissues from the same patients, researchers isolated true biological signals from potential lab artifacts.

Such methodological precision is a hallmark of high-caliber academic investigations, reflecting the expertise at institutions like NYU's Perlmutter Cancer Center and Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards. This approach not only validates the results but also sets a standard for future studies at U.S. universities tackling elusive pollutants.

The Pervasive Threat of Microplastics in Everyday Life

Microplastics, tiny fragments less than 5 millimeters and nanoplastics under 1 micrometer, originate from degrading larger plastics in products like food packaging, cosmetics, synthetic clothing, and tires. Humans ingest them via seafood, bottled water, and airborne particles; inhale them from dust; and absorb them through skin. Recent estimates suggest average weekly intake exceeds a credit card's weight, infiltrating nearly every human organ—from placenta and breast milk to lungs and brain.

At U.S. universities, researchers are mapping this exposure. For instance, studies from the University of New Mexico have documented alarmingly high MNP levels in brain tissue, potentially linked to neurodegeneration, while Duke University compiles vast datasets on plastic health impacts.

Prostate Cancer Burden in the United States

Prostate cancer affects about 1 in 8 American men over their lifetime, with the American Cancer Society projecting 333,830 new cases and over 35,000 deaths in 2026 alone. Risk factors include age (most common after 65), family history, African American ethnicity (higher incidence and mortality), and lifestyle elements like obesity and diet. Late-stage diagnoses have risen sharply—up 6 percent annually in men aged 55-69—prompting investigations into environmental contributors.

University hospitals like NYU Langone play pivotal roles in screening and treatment advancements, from PSA tests to robotic surgeries, yet emerging data suggests everyday exposures like plastics could exacerbate trends. Explore faculty positions in urology and oncology research to contribute to these efforts.

Potential Biological Mechanisms: Inflammation and Beyond

How might MNPs fuel prostate cancer? Researchers hypothesize chronic inflammation: particles trigger immune overreactions, releasing reactive oxygen species that damage DNA and promote mutations. Plastics also leach endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), known to disrupt hormone signaling—critical in prostate tissue reliant on androgens.

• Oxidative stress: MNPs generate free radicals, impairing cell repair.
• Hormonal interference: EDCs mimic estrogen, altering prostate cell growth.
• Cell proliferation: Lab studies show polystyrene nanoplastics boost prostate cancer cell growth via ferroptosis inhibition—a protective cell death pathway.
• Bioaccumulation: Higher tumor concentrations suggest selective retention in malignant sites.

These pathways align with prior cell and animal research, positioning MNPs as potential carcinogens. NYU's next steps include mechanistic probes, echoing broader U.S. academic pursuits.

Expert Reactions and Calls for Caution

Stacy Loeb emphasized, "Our pilot study provides important evidence that microplastic exposure may be a risk factor for prostate cancer." Albergamo added, "Our findings highlight the need for stricter regulatory measures." External voices like Stanford's Michael Eisenberg note the "astonishing prevalence," urging replication, while MD Anderson's Andrea Viale calls it a factor in rising advanced cases.

Critics highlight the small sample and lack of causation proof, stressing larger, peer-reviewed trials. This balanced discourse exemplifies rigorous scientific discourse at top U.S. institutions.

Preceding Research: A Global Pattern Emerges

NYU's work builds on a 2024 Chinese study finding higher MPs in prostate tumors versus healthy tissue, plus detections in colon, lung, and ovarian cancers. U.S. efforts include UT Austin's probe into MPs and rising cancer rates, UCSF's link between airborne plastics and lung/colon risks, and Harvard reviews on cellular damage.

Controversies persist—some studies face contamination critiques—but NYU's controls bolster credibility, inspiring multi-university collaborations.

Implications for Public Health and Policy

As plastics permeate prostates—the organ most exposed via urine?—this raises alarms for vulnerable groups like older men. Broader U.S. impacts: potential contributions to 333,000 annual cases, alongside economic burdens exceeding $20 billion yearly.

Policy responses: EPA microbead bans helped, but tire wear and textiles persist. Universities advocate for production taxes, recycling mandates, and exposure biomonitoring. Career advice for aspiring environmental health researchers.

U.S. Universities Leading the Charge Against Plastic Pollution

Beyond NYU, peers advance the field:

Funding from NIH, DoD fuels these, creating jobs in toxicology and oncology.

Solutions and Mitigation Strategies

Reduce exposure:

• Filter tap water, avoid plastic bottles.
• Choose natural fibers, minimize microwaved plastics.
• Support biodegradable alternatives.
• Advocate policy via university petitions.

Universities pioneer filters, bio-based plastics.

Future Research Directions in Academia

Larger cohorts, longitudinal tracking, mechanism dissections needed. NYU plans inflammation studies; collaborations eyed. This positions U.S. higher ed as leaders in planetary health.

Interested in oncology or env tox? Browse research jobs, postdoc opportunities.

Why This Matters for Higher Education and Careers

Discoveries like NYU's drive grants, publications, tenure. Fields like urologic oncology boom, with demand for professors versed in env carcinogens. Check professor salaries. Platforms like Rate My Professor connect students to mentors. Explore higher ed jobs, university jobs, career advice to join this vital work.

Photo by Mihály Köles on Unsplash