Environmental Pollution Journal
Vol. 6 No. 1: April 2026

Topical Polyethylene Exposure Induces Conjunctival Inflammation and Early Meibomian Gland Alterations in Wistar Rats

Felicia Yoshe (Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya)
Yudhiakuari Sincihu (Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya)
Imelda Theodora (Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya)
Titiek Ernawati (Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya)
L. Suwandito (Universitas Katolik Widya Mandala Surabaya)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Feb 2026

Abstract

Nanoplastics are plastic particles smaller than 1000 nm formed from plastic degradation, including polyethylene (PE) These particles can enter the eye through environmental exposure or topical products and may induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and Meibomian gland dysfunctionEvidence regarding ocular toxicity from topical nanoplastic exposure remains limited. To evaluate the effects of topical polyethylene nanoplastic exposure on ocular surface inflammation and Meibomian gland histology. This experimental post-test only study used male Rattus norvegicus Wistar rats receiving topical polyethylene nanoplastic eye drops. Histopathological analysis with Hematoxylin–Eosin staining assessed PMN infiltration, normal Meibomian acini, acinar width, and gland obstruction. PMN infiltration in the palpebral conjunctiva increased significantly (p=0.014), while normal Meibomian acini decreased significantly (p=0.000). Other parameters showed no significant differences. Topical polyethylene nanoplastic exposure induces conjunctival inflammation and early Meibomian gland alterations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

epj

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Chemistry Engineering Environmental Science Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice

Description

Environmental Pollution Journal adalah jurnal yang dapat diakses secara terbuka yang dipublikasikan oleh ECOTON Foundation. Jurnal ini bertujuan untuk mengintegrasi penelitian terkini terkait pencemaran lingkungan baik di Indonesia maupun di berbagai negara. Output yang didapatkan tidak hanya untuk ...