Pollution particles, including metals, have been found in the placentas of fifteen women in London, according to research led by Queen Mary University of London.
The study, funded by Barts Charity and published in the journal Science of The Total Environment, demonstrate that inhaled particulate matter from air pollution can move from the lungs to distant organs, and that it is taken up by certain cells in the human placenta, and potentially the foetus.
The researchers say that further research is needed to fully define the direct effect that pollution particles may have on the developing foetus.
Lead author Professor Jonathan Grigg from Queen Mary University of London said: “Our study for the first time shows that inhaled carbon particulate matter in air pollution, travels in the blood stream, and is taken up by important cells in the placenta. We hope that this information will encourage policy makers to reduce road traffic emissions in this post lock down period.”
Read more at Queen Mary University of London
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