Superfund Research Program

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April 2025

Matthew Campen, Ph.D., a scientist at the University of New Mexico Superfund Research Program Center, is at the forefront of research on micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs). NIEHS Director Rick Woychik, Ph.D., interviewed Campen about MNPs and his groundbreaking publication on MNP accumulation in humans.

While plastic has transformed modern life, research shows that over time, plastic waste can degrade into particles so small that they become invisible — and increasingly, unavoidable. These MNPs can be found not only throughout the environment but also in the human body, raising important questions about their potential health effects.

In the interview, Campen describes the basics of MNPs, how they enter human bodies, and the health implications of MNP accumulation organs like the brain, kidney, and liver. Campen also shared about his path to a research career.

Learn more about MNPs in the NIEHS Environmental Factor Newsletter.