Plastic and Placenta: Identification of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Compounds in the Human Placenta by HPLC-MS/MS System

Abstract

The placenta is a crucial interface between the fetus and the maternal environment. It allows for nutrient absorption, thermal regulation, waste elimination and gas exchange through the mother's blood supply. Furthermore, the placenta determines important adjustments and epigenetic modifications that can change the phenotypic expression of the individual even long after birth.Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a  polyether  compound derived from  petroleum  with many applications, from medicine to industrial manufacturing. In this study, for the first time, a combination of UHPLC followed by Mass Spectrometry was used to detect suites of polyethylene glycol (PEG) compounds in human placenta samples, collected from 12 placentas, originating from physiological pregnancy. In all but two placentas, we identified fragments of PEG in chorioamniotic membranes, and in placental cotyledons, for a total of 36 samples.

Note:
Funding Information: None to declare.

Declaration of Interests: None to declare.

Ethics Approval Statement: The study received a Declaration of Ethical Approval from the Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina Hospital in Rome 1, approval number Prot. 2239/CE.

Keywords: Plastics particles, Placenta, Polyethylene glycol, UHPLC-Mass Spectrometry