Micro- and Nanoplastics in Drosophila melanogaster: Reproductive Effects and Potential Mechanisms

Global plastic production has increased exponentially over the past decades. Because of its widespread use and inadequate waste management, plastic pollution has also risen dramatically, becoming a major environmental health concern. Among the resulting contaminants are micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), which are primarily generated through the fragmentation of larger plastic debris and have been associated with alterations in reproductive outcomes in model organisms such as Drosophila melanogaster. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the available evidence regarding the effects of MNPs on fertility- and fecundity-related endpoints in D. melanogaster. The review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. A total of 37 records were identified, of which 11 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The available evidence suggests that MNP exposure may alter reproductive outcomes in D. melanogaster, although the evidence remains limited and heterogeneous across polymer types, particle characteristics, exposure conditions, and reproductive endpoints. Reported effects included alterations in fertility and fecundity, as well as changes in gonadal morphology, oxidative stress, mitochondria-related processes, and the expression of genes and signaling pathways associated with reproduction and development. These findings highlight several biological processes that may contribute to MNP-associated reproductive effects, while further studies are needed to clarify their relative contribution and establish causal mechanisms.