Antonio Pio Montella

Antonio Pio Montella


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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27 October 2025 in Journal of Clinical Medicine
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
GIGIAN LUCA IANNUZZI
GIAN LUCA IANNUZZI
MDMichele D'Alto
Michele D'Alto
GBGiorgio Bosso
Giorgio Bosso
AMAntonio Pio Montella
Antonio Pio Montella
VDVeronica D'Oria
Veronica D'Oria
MFMarisa De Feo
Marisa De Feo
The global spread of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) has emerged as an environmental and medical concern, with growing evidence of their role in cardiovascular disease (CVD). These particles, originating from the degradation of larger plastics and consumer products, can be ingested or inhaled, cross biological barriers, and accumulate in human tissues, including blood, myocardium, and atherosclerotic plaques. Experimental and clinical studies suggest that MNPs contribute to CVD through multiple mechanisms: activation of systemic inflammation and inflammasomes, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, prothrombotic activity, and direct myocardial injury, ultimately promoting fibrosis and impaired contractility. Epidemiological data further indicate that populations exposed to higher plastic pollution or with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors may be particularly vulnerable. Taken together, these findings identify MNPs as a potential novel environmental cardiovascular risk factor. Advancing detection methods, mechanistic research, and public health strategies will be essential to mitigate their impact and reduce plastic-related cardiovascular burden.