On Oct. 30, 2024, an international research team led by the University of Bonn reported results of a study that showed nanoplastic particles deposited in the body affect the effectiveness of antibiotics.

The study showed that the plastic particles not only impair the effect of the drugs, but could also promote the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Using complex computer models, the team was able to prove that the nanoplastic particles can bind tetracycline and thus impair the effectiveness of the antibiotic.

At the same time, binding to nanoplastics could lead to the antibiotic being transported to unintended sites in the body, causing it to lose its targeted effect and possibly cause other undesirable effects. The results of the study were published in the journal Scientific Reports.