essay on human body system

Human Body Essay

Introduction.

It is surprising to see how a human body functions with maximum capability. Whether we are talking, walking or seeing, there are distinct parts in our body that are destined to perform a particular function. The importance of each part is discussed in this human body essay. When we feel tired, we often take a rest and lie down for a moment. But our body continues to work, even when we take a break. Even if you are tired, your heart will not stop beating. It pumps blood and transports nutrients to your body.

The human body is made up of many parts and organs that work together to sustain life in our body. No organ or body part is more important than the other, and if you ignore one of them, then the whole body will be in pain. So, let us teach the significance of different parts of the body to our children through this essay on human body parts in English. To explore other exciting content for kids learning , head to our website.

Different Systems in the Human Body

The human body looks very simple from the outside with hands, legs, face, eyes, ears and so on. But, there is a more complex and significant structure inside the body that helps us to live. The human body is made up of many small structures like cells, tissues, organs and systems. It is covered by the skin, beneath which you could find muscles, veins, and blood. This structure is formed on the base of a skeleton, which consists of many bones. All these are arranged in a specific way to help the body function effectively. In this human body essay, we will see the different systems in the human body and their functions.

The circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system and nervous system are the main systems of the human body. Each system has different organs, and they function together to accomplish several tasks. The circulatory system consists of organs like the heart, blood and blood vessels, and its main function is to pump blood from the heart to the lungs and carry oxygen to different parts of the body.

Next, we will understand the importance of the respiratory system through this human body essay in English. The respiratory system enables us to breathe easily, and it includes organs like the lungs, airways, windpipe, nose and mouth. While the digestive system helps in breaking down the food we eat and gives the energy to work with the help of organs like the mouth, food pipe, stomach, intestines, pancreas, liver, and anus, the nervous system controls our actions, thoughts and movements. It mainly consists of organs like the brain, spinal cord and nerves.

All these systems are necessary for the proper functioning of the human body, which is discussed in this essay on human body parts in English. By inculcating good eating habits, maintaining proper hygiene and doing regular exercises, we can look after our bodies. You can refer to more essays for kids on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions on Human Body Essay

Why should we take care of our bodies.

Most of the tasks we do like walking, running, eating etc., are only possible if we have a healthy body. To ensure we have a healthy body, all the systems must function properly, which is determined by our lifestyle and eating habits. Only a healthy body will have a healthy mind, and hence, we must take good care of our bodies.

What are some of the body parts and their functions?

We see with our eyes, listen with our ears, walk with our legs, touch with our hands, breathe through our nose and taste with our tongue.

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1.2 Structural Organization of the Human Body

Learning objectives.

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

• Describe the structure of the human body in terms of six levels of organization
• List the eleven organ systems of the human body and identify at least one organ and one major function of each

Before you begin to study the different structures and functions of the human body, it is helpful to consider its basic architecture; that is, how its smallest parts are assembled into larger structures. It is convenient to consider the structures of the body in terms of fundamental levels of organization that increase in complexity: subatomic particles, atoms, molecules, organelles, cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, organisms and biosphere ( Figure 1.3 ).

The Levels of Organization

To study the chemical level of organization, scientists consider the simplest building blocks of matter: subatomic particles, atoms and molecules. All matter in the universe is composed of one or more unique pure substances called elements, familiar examples of which are hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, calcium, and iron. The smallest unit of any of these pure substances (elements) is an atom. Atoms are made up of subatomic particles such as the proton, electron and neutron. Two or more atoms combine to form a molecule, such as the water molecules, proteins, and sugars found in living things. Molecules are the chemical building blocks of all body structures.

A cell is the smallest independently functioning unit of a living organism. Even bacteria, which are extremely small, independently-living organisms, have a cellular structure. Each bacterium is a single cell. All living structures of human anatomy contain cells, and almost all functions of human physiology are performed in cells or are initiated by cells.

A human cell typically consists of flexible membranes that enclose cytoplasm, a water-based cellular fluid together with a variety of tiny functioning units called organelles . In humans, as in all organisms, cells perform all functions of life. A tissue is a group of many similar cells (though sometimes composed of a few related types) that work together to perform a specific function. An organ is an anatomically distinct structure of the body composed of two or more tissue types. Each organ performs one or more specific physiological functions. An organ system is a group of organs that work together to perform major functions or meet physiological needs of the body.

This book covers eleven distinct organ systems in the human body ( Figure 1.4 and Figure 1.5 ). Assigning organs to organ systems can be imprecise since organs that “belong” to one system can also have functions integral to another system. In fact, most organs contribute to more than one system.

In this book and throughout your studies of biological sciences, you will often read descriptions related to similarities and differences among biological structures, processes, and health related to a person's biological sex. People often use the words "female" and "male" to describe two different concepts: our sense of gender identity, and our biological sex as determined by our chromosomes, hormones, organs, and other physical characteristics. For some people, gender identity is different from biological sex or their sex assigned at birth. Throughout this book, "female" and "male" refer to sex only, and the typical anatomy and physiology of XX and XY individuals is discussed.

The organism level is the highest level of organization. An organism is a living being that has a cellular structure and that can independently perform all physiologic functions necessary for life. In multicellular organisms, including humans, all cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of the body work together to maintain the life and health of the organism.

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Unit 8: Human body systems

About this unit.

Your body is an amazing system! The human body is made up of groups of organs, called organ systems, that work together to keep the body in balance. In this section, we'll travel from the circulatory system, to the nervous system, to the immune system and beyond. Learn about the amazing biology that keeps your body ticking!

Body structure and homeostasis

• Homeostasis (Opens a modal)
• Tissues, organs, & organ systems (Opens a modal)
• Body structure and homeostasis review (Opens a modal)
• Body structure and homeostasis Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

The circulatory and respiratory systems

• Meet the heart! (Opens a modal)
• Circulatory system and the heart (Opens a modal)
• The circulatory system review (Opens a modal)
• Meet the lungs! (Opens a modal)
• The lungs and pulmonary system (Opens a modal)
• The respiratory system review (Opens a modal)
• The circulatory and respiratory systems Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

The musculoskeletal system

• Skeletal structure and function (Opens a modal)
• Cartilage (Opens a modal)
• Ligaments, tendons, and joints (Opens a modal)
• Three types of muscle (Opens a modal)
• Anatomy of a skeletal muscle cell (Opens a modal)
• LeBron Asks: What muscles do we use when shooting a basket? (Opens a modal)
• The musculoskeletal system review (Opens a modal)
• The musculoskeletal system Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

The digestive and excretory systems

• Meet the gastrointestinal tract! (Opens a modal)
• Kidney function and anatomy (Opens a modal)
• Urination (Opens a modal)
• The digestive and excretory systems review (Opens a modal)
• The digestive and excretory systems Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

The nervous and endocrine systems

• Structure of the nervous system (Opens a modal)
• Anatomy of a neuron (Opens a modal)
• Intro to the endocrine system (Opens a modal)
• The nervous and endocrine systems review (Opens a modal)
• The nervous and endocrine systems Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

The reproductive system

• Welcome to the reproductive system (Opens a modal)
• Egg, sperm, and fertilization (Opens a modal)
• The reproductive system review (Opens a modal)
• The reproductive system Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

The immune system

• Types of immune responses: Innate and adaptive, humoral vs. cell-mediated (Opens a modal)
• Role of phagocytes in innate or nonspecific immunity (Opens a modal)
• Self vs. non-self immunity (Opens a modal)
• Intro to viruses (Opens a modal)
• Viral replication: lytic vs lysogenic (Opens a modal)
• The immune system review (Opens a modal)
• The immune system Get 3 of 4 questions to level up!

Essay on Human Body

Students are often asked to write an essay on Human Body in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Human Body

The marvel of the human body.

The human body is a complex, wonderful machine. It consists of many parts, all working together.

Body Systems

There are many systems in our body, like the skeletal system that provides structure, and the muscular system that allows movement.

Organs and Cells

Organs like the heart and lungs perform vital functions. Our body is also made up of trillions of tiny cells.

Body’s Defenses

The immune system protects us from disease, while the skin serves as a barrier against the outside world.

In conclusion, the human body is a fascinating subject, full of wonder and complexity.

250 Words Essay on Human Body

Introduction.

The human body, a complex biological system, is a marvel of evolution. It comprises numerous organs, tissues, and cells, all working in harmony to maintain life. This essay delves into the intricacies of the human body, highlighting its major components and their functions.

Structural Organization

At the most basic level, cells form the building blocks of the human body. These cells group together to form tissues, which further combine to create organs. Each organ has a specific function, contributing to the body’s overall health and survival.

Systems of the Human Body

The body is divided into several systems, including the nervous, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, endocrine, and musculoskeletal systems. Each of these systems plays a crucial role. For instance, the nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, controls body functions and enables cognition and consciousness.

Maintenance and Regulation

The human body’s homeostasis is fundamental to its functioning. This involves maintaining a constant internal environment, such as body temperature and pH balance. The endocrine system, with its hormones, and the nervous system play significant roles in this regulation.

In conclusion, the human body is an intricate and efficient system, a testament to the wonders of nature and evolution. Its complexity and functionality are a constant subject of study, offering endless possibilities for research and advancement in the field of medicine and biology.

500 Words Essay on Human Body

The human body is a complex and fascinating entity that is the epitome of biological engineering. It is a marvel of evolution, honed over millions of years to become a highly efficient machine capable of extraordinary feats. This essay delves into the intricacies of the human body, exploring its structure, function, and the symbiotic relationship between its various systems.

Structural Complexity

The human body is composed of several levels of structural organization. At the most basic level, we find cells – the building blocks of life. These cells group together to form tissues, which in turn combine to form organs. The organs then work together in organ systems to perform specific functions. The human body comprises eleven organ systems, each with its own unique role, yet they all work in unison to maintain homeostasis.

Functional Dynamics

The functionality of the human body is a testament to the intricate design and coordination of its systems. The circulatory system, for instance, is responsible for the transportation of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products around the body. The nervous system, on the other hand, acts as the body’s control center, sending and receiving signals to and from different parts of the body. The respiratory system facilitates the exchange of gases, while the digestive system breaks down food into nutrients that the body can use. These systems, among others, work in a coordinated fashion to ensure the smooth functioning of the body.

The Symbiotic Relationship

The relationship between the various systems of the human body is symbiotic in nature. Each system relies on the others to function optimally. For instance, the respiratory and circulatory systems work together to deliver oxygen to cells and remove carbon dioxide. The nervous system controls the rate of breathing and heart rate based on the body’s needs. The endocrine system, with its hormones, influences almost every other system, affecting growth, metabolism, mood, and more. This interdependence underscores the complexity and efficiency of the human body.

Adaptability and Resilience

One of the most remarkable characteristics of the human body is its adaptability and resilience. It can adapt to various environmental conditions, from the freezing temperatures of the Arctic to the scorching heat of the desert. The immune system, a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs, defends the body against harmful microorganisms, demonstrating the body’s resilience. Furthermore, the body has remarkable healing capabilities, with systems in place to repair damage and restore function.

In conclusion, the human body is an intricately designed system that showcases the marvels of evolution. Its structural complexity, functional dynamics, symbiotic relationship between systems, and adaptability and resilience are awe-inspiring. Understanding the human body not only allows us to appreciate the marvel that it is but also equips us with the knowledge to take better care of it. Indeed, the human body is a testament to the sophistication and beauty of biological engineering.

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The Digestive System in the Human Body Essay

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Introduction

The stomach, large intestines, small intestines, works cited.

Human biology is a field in biology that deals with nutrition, anthropology, and medicine. The body of a human being contains a digestive system that deals with the digestion and absorption of food nutrients into the body. The stomach, small intestines, and large intestines are part of the digestive system. All of them are located at different positions in the body and have different functions and structures.

The stomach is an organ of digestion located between the esophagus and the duodenum on the left upper part of the abdominal cavity. It is a muscular, elastic pear-shaped bag lying just below the diaphragm. It is made up of five layers. The innermost layer is referred to as mucosa. The four sections of the stomach are the fundus, cardia, body, and pylorus. It is involved in the second phase of digestion after chewing. It secretes enzymes that help in the digestion of proteins. It also secretes some acids that help in the digestion of food. The major secretions are hydrochloric acid and protease enzymes. The work of hydrochloric acid is to kill any bacteria that may be in the food and provide an acidic pH that allows proteases to work effectively (Chiras 95).

The large intestines of the human body are located between the ileocecal junction and the rectum. They are about one and a half meters long and two and a half centimeters wide. The major parts of the large intestines are the caecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descending colon, sigmoid colon, rectum, and anal canal (Tortora and Grabowski 46). The large intestines receive food contents and fluids from the small intestines. The large intestines help in the re-absorption of water into the body system. The water absorbed is used to maintain the fluid balance of the body. Some vitamins that are created by the bacteria in the large intestines are also absorbed. They also help in the transport of waste products in form of stool out of the body.

The small intestines are located between the stomach and the large intestines. Specifically, they start at the pyloric sphincter and end at the ileocaecal valve. They are narrow and long to allow digestion and absorption of food. The standard length of the small intestines in an adult human being is five meters but they may be shorter or longer. The three parts of the small intestines are the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum (Tortora and Grabowski 49). The majority of digestion and absorption of food takes place in the small intestines. Chemical digestion takes place in the small intestines where many enzymes that facilitate digestion are secreted. In the small intestines, proteins and peptides are digested into amino acids. Lipase enzymes are used to degrade fats into glycerol and fatty acids. Some carbohydrates are also digested in the stomach to form simple sugars. The process of absorption takes place where food nutrients are diffused into the bloodstream. The small intestines have many villi that have networks of capillaries to help indigestion. Monosaccharides, amino acids, water, iron, and many others are absorbed here.

The digestive system in the human body mainly deals with digestion and absorption of food nutrients and fluids. The stomach is located between the esophagus and the duodenum and helps in the digestion of partially chewed food. The large intestines are located between the ileocecal junction and the rectum. They help in the absorption of water, some nutrients, and the excretion of wastes out of the body. The small intestines are located between the pyloric sphincter and the ileocaecal valve. They help in the digestion of food and absorption of food nutrients into the bloodstream.

Chiras, Daniel. Human Biology. Sixth Edition. London: Jones and Bartlett Punishers, 2009. Print.

Tortora, Gerald and Grabowski, Sandra. Introduction to the human body: the essentials of anatomy and physiology. Volume 1. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 2004. Print.

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IvyPanda. (2022, March 13). The Digestive System in the Human Body. https://ivypanda.com/essays/the-digestive-system-in-the-human-body/

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HUMAN BODY SYSTEMS ESSAY QUESTION

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Human Body essay

HUMAN BODY 4

Thehuman body consists of systems that work jointly for the properfunctioning of the body. For the human body to function properly, allthe systems in the body must be functioning well. Failure of onesystem can lead to the failure of another system, or may make theother systems to function improperly. Body systems include theendocrine system, respiratory system, skeletal system, nervoussystem, excretory system, reproductive system, muscular system,digestive system, skeletal system, immune system, and the circulatorysystem (Smith et al., n.d).

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Theendocrine system is a system in the body that consists of glands liketesticles that are found in males, pituitary glands, ovaries that arefound in females, pancreas, parathyroid, and thyroid glands. Theseglands produce hormones that are responsible for regulating mood,sexual desires, the functioning of tissues, metabolism, andreproduction.

Therespiratory system is primarily responsible for gaseous exchange inthe body. That is, taking in of oxygen gas and taking out of carbondioxide that is done through the lungs. Therefore, the respiratorysystem is responsible for supplying oxygen to all parts of the bodyusing the red blood cells.

Theskeletal system is made up of all joints and bones in the body. Theskeletal system supports and protects soft tissues that are found inthe body. Also, the skeletal system allows joints to move byproviding points for muscles attachment. Furthermore, bones storecalcium, energy, which is in the form of fats, and iron among otherelements.

Thenervous system constitutes of neurons that send out signals betweendifferent body parts. The nervous system is usually divided into twoparts the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system(Smith et al., n.d). The nervous system controls blood pressure,senses of touch, and breathing among others.

Theexcretory system is responsible for discharging wastes from the body.The excretory system eliminates wastes from the body so as to controlthe process of homeostasis as well as preventing body damage. Organsthat are involved in the excretion process are the liver, kidney,large intestines, and the skin.

Thereproductive system consists of organs found in either males orfemales, and these organs are responsible for procreation. Thereproductive system of a male is made up of testes and penis whilethe female reproductive consists of the vagina, uterus, and theovaries.

Themuscular system usually consists of skeletal, smooth, and cardiacmuscles. The muscular system is checked by the nervous system. Thus,muscular system is responsible for the body movements, bloodcirculation in the body, and maintenance of body posture.

Thedigestive system converts food into nutrients that are easilyabsorbed by the body while the rest is converted into energy. Thedigestive system consists of the alimentary canal that is made up ofthe large intestine, stomach, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, and oralcavity (Smith et al., n.d). In the digestive system, the followingactivities take place: mixing and movement of food, ingestion,secretion, digestion, and absorption.

Theimmune system protects the body from infections caused bymicro-organisms. The main role of the immune system is to keep peoplehealthy and free from diseases. When the immune system fails to workwell, people get infected and suffer from diseases.

Thecirculatory system consists of many networked organs and vessels thatare responsible for the flow of blood to and from cells. Also, thecirculatory system helps in the transportation of oxygen, nutrients,hormones, and gases in the body.

Smith,B., Munn, K. &amp Papakin, I. (n.d). BodilySystems and the Spatial-Functional Structure of the .Retrieved from https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amprct=j&ampq=&ampesrc=s&ampsource=web&ampcd=19&ampcad=rja&ampuact=8&ampved=0ahUKEwjL_oD3ioXNAhVJI8AKHcypA304ChAWCFkwCA&ampurl=http%3A%2F%2Fontology.buffalo.edu%2Fmedo%2FOBS.pdf&ampusg=AFQjCNH__vOxsRNx2y95Ifok8jo00JUXQQ&ampsig2=hrDxHgUjjl92ngWqcxdZHw&ampbvm=bv.123325700,d.d2s

FunctionalOrganization of the : the internal environment .Retrieved from https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&amprct=j&ampq=&ampesrc=s&ampsource=web&ampcd=12&ampcad=rja&ampuact=8&ampved=0ahUKEwjL_oD3ioXNAhVJI8AKHcypA304ChAWCC0wAQ&ampurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cabrillo.edu%2F~jtice%2FHSERV%2520162%2FFUNCTIONALOrganization%2520of%2520the%2520Human%2520Body.pdf&ampusg=AFQjCNGmG25837beVx00gwnrZKLBMAnt9w&ampsig2=jXo3JAmyWGYvzh0SXZaZEA&ampbvm=bv.123325700,d.d2s

The Crucial Role of Specialized Cells in Bodily Communication and Signal Transmission

This essay is about the crucial role of specialized cells in human biology, comparing them to dedicated couriers in a bustling city. It highlights the importance of neurons, glial cells, immune cells, endocrine cells, cardiac muscle cells, sensory cells, and stem cells. Each type plays a unique role in communication, signal transmission, and maintaining the body’s health and balance, showcasing their collective importance in the symphony of life.

How it works

In the grand mosaic of human biology, the symphony of specialized cells orchestrates a unique and vital communication system. Imagine the body as a dynamic metropolis, with these cells acting as dedicated couriers, ensuring every sector of this urban expanse functions in perfect sync. From neurons firing deep within the brain to muscles reacting with precision, these cells are the silent champions of bodily communication, perpetually transmitting signals to keep the intricate machinery of the body running smoothly.

Consider the neuron, with its complex network of dendrites and axons, as the maestro of cellular communication.

Much like lightning racing across the sky, electrical signals called action potentials travel along these nerve cells at astonishing speeds. With each neuronal discharge, a chain reaction of events unfolds, from the simplest reflexes to the most profound thoughts, underscoring the crucial role these cells play in shaping human experience.

Yet, amid the prominence of neurons, we must not forget the supporting ensemble of specialized cells that play equally critical roles in maintaining the body’s delicate equilibrium. Glial cells, often overshadowed by their more electrically active counterparts, provide essential support to neurons, ensuring their structural integrity and regulating their activity. From the star-shaped astrocytes to the vigilant microglia patrolling the brain for signs of trouble, these unsung heroes are the guardians of neuronal health, tirelessly maintaining the optimal conditions for communication to flourish.

Beyond the nervous system, we encounter a diverse array of specialized cells, each fulfilling a unique function and purpose. In the immune system, white blood cells stand as valiant defenders, launching preemptive strikes against invading pathogens and maintaining the body’s defenses. Like soldiers on the battlefield, these cells work tirelessly to ensure the body’s continued health and well-being, epitomizing the resilience of the human immune system.

In endocrinology, specialized cells within endocrine glands produce and release hormones that act as molecular messengers, regulating various physiological processes throughout the body. From the thyroid gland, which secretes hormones governing metabolism, to the adrenal glands, which produce hormones that help the body respond to stress, these cells serve as the conductors of the body’s hormonal orchestra, ensuring each player performs its part in perfect synchrony.

Within individual organs and tissues, specialized cells play critical roles in communication and signal transmission. In the heart, for example, specialized cardiac muscle cells form an intricate network of fibers responsible for generating the electrical impulses that coordinate each heartbeat. These cells, with their rhythmic pulsations, ensure the heart beats in perfect harmony, pumping blood throughout the body with unwavering precision.

In the realm of sensory perception, specialized cells within the eyes, ears, nose, and skin serve as the body’s sentinels, detecting and translating external stimuli into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain. From the photoreceptor cells in the retina, which allow us to see the vibrant colors of the world, to the olfactory receptors in the nose, which enable us to savor the rich tapestry of scents around us, these cells are the gatekeepers of human perception, opening windows to the wonders of the world.

Perhaps most intriguing is the role of specialized cells in embryonic development and tissue regeneration. Stem cells, with their remarkable ability to differentiate into various cell types, hold the promise of regenerating damaged tissues and organs, offering hope to millions suffering from debilitating diseases and injuries. These cells, with their boundless potential, represent the frontier of regenerative medicine, heralding a new era of healing and restoration for the human body.

In conclusion, specialized cells are the unsung heroes of bodily communication and signal transmission, weaving a tapestry of intricate connections that underlie the marvel of human biology. From the humble neuron to the mighty stem cell, these cells stand as testaments to the ingenuity of evolution, shaping our understanding of life and offering glimpses into the mysteries of the human body. As we continue to unravel the complexities of cellular communication, let us not forget the invaluable contributions of these remarkable cells in sculpting the symphony of life.

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25 amazing facts about the human body you may not know

Posted: March 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 24, 2024

25 facts you may not know about the organs in your body

Although humans have lived with the same bodies for millennia, we are still exploring and uncovering new parts, processes, and functions every year.

Researchers continue to discover new organs; for example, mesentery, which was previously thought to be a fragmented series of tissues, was reclassified as a single organ in 2017 . What's more, procedures to repair organs are also evolving rapidly. Just last March, doctors were able to perform groundbreaking brain surgery on a baby —while she was still in the womb.

There are 79 organs in the human body, spanning the muscular, nervous, endocrine, skeletal, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.

But not all organs are created equal. Of these, five are considered vital: the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs . While these heavy hitters keep us alive and functioning, there are plenty of organs we can live without. The appendix, spleen, reproductive organs, and colon are just a few of the many organs that, while helpful to our bodily processes, aren't necessary for survival . In 2021, a record high of 41,354 organ transplants took place in the U.S. , including 24,669 kidney transplants, 9,236 liver transplants, and 3,817 heart transplants.

Stacker compiled a list of facts on 25 major organs in your body. Read on to see what you know about human anatomy.

Your liver performs 500 vital functions.

The liver processes all the blood that travels out of the stomach and intestines . During this process, the organ excretes bile, regulates chemical levels, creates nutrients, and metabolizes drugs. These are just some of the more than 500 vital functions the liver performs, which also include preventing blood from clotting and producing cholesterol.

It can take up to five hours for the small intestine to complete all of its digestive tasks.

The small intestine is the longest piece of the gastrointestinal tract that food travels through on its way out of the body and it's food's first stop immediately after leaving the stomach; most of the digestion process takes place here. It can take up to five hours for the small intestine to complete all of its digestive tasks , which include breaking food down, absorbing its nutrients, extracting water, and then passing food along to the large intestine.

The appendix is often called useless, but it may be important for immunity.

Also part of the gastrointestinal tract, the appendix is located in the lower abdomen and attached to the large intestine. However, it hasn't been observed to play any role in aiding digestion. It is thought that the appendix may promote immune system health by producing immunoglobulin A. Many people get this finger-shaped organ removed after experiencing inflammation, which hasn't been observed to have any negative side effects on the body.

Your immune system contains hundreds of lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes are small and shaped like a bean—and your immune system contains hundreds of them. The primary function of lymph nodes is to filter out lymphatic fluid, as well as to deploy white blood cells as part of the body's defense against infection. Lymph nodes are found grouped together in the neck, armpits, chest, abdomen, and groin. 

It's technically possible to live without your pancreas.

Part of the digestive system, the pancreas is located in the back of the abdomen. It is a gland—that is, an organ that produces a substance. The two main functions of the pancreas are to produce enzymes that promote digestion and to release hormones that regulate sugar levels in the blood. Although it is technically possible to live without your pancreas, this would require taking enzyme supplements and insulin shots to regulate blood sugar in an alternative way.

Your heart is about the size of two clenched fists.

The heart is the primary organ of the circulatory system. It contains four main chambers and is about the size of one clenched fist for a child and two for an adult. The heart is controlled by electrical impulses sent by the brain and nervous system. Though its primary role is to pump blood throughout the body via valves and blood vessels, it also regulates blood pressure and heart rate.

The bronchi direct air to your left or right lung.

We each have two of these organs, which are part of the respiratory system and sit inside the chest and connect to your lungs. Once air is breathed in, it moves through the bronchi, which direct it to either the left or right lung . Besides carrying air to the lungs, the bronchi (singular: bronchus) also moisturize the air and clear it of mucus and particles each time you cough or swallow.

There are two main types of arteries in your body.

Part of the cardiovascular system, the arteries exist in many varieties throughout the body, serving everything from the brain to the legs to the spine, and much more. They  transport blood from the heart to every other part of the body , thus distributing oxygen, nutrients, and hormones that keep the cells healthy and working. Elastic arteries act as receptacles, blood's first stop once it leaves the heart; muscular arteries then take this blood and spread it around the body's systems.

The brain weighs about three pounds.

The brain makes up one-half of the central nervous system. It weighs about three pounds for adults and is made up of fat, water, proteins, carbohydrates, and salts. Through receiving and sending chemical and electrical signals, the brain controls everything from pain to memory to fatigue to speech . It has four main parts: the frontal lobe dictates smell, decision-making, personality, speech, and movement; the parietal lobe controls spatial understanding, pain, touch, understanding speech, and identifying objects; the occipital lobe creates vision; and finally, the temporal lobe is involved in short-term memory and musical rhythm.

The thyroid affects every system in your body.

The butterfly-shaped thyroid gland is located at the front of the neck and is part of the endocrine system. By making and distributing certain hormones throughout the body, the thyroid gland affects every system in the body . The thyroid's main function is to control your metabolic rate, which is the speed at which your body turns food into energy. It also affects your heart rate, breathing, body temperature, digestion, fertility, and mental health, among many other functions.

Your lungs help you take 12 to 20 breaths per minute.

Twelve to 20 times per minute, the lungs take inhaled air , cleanse it of carbon dioxide, and release it into the rest of the body. Through this process, oxygen travels to the heart, from where it is then distributed to all other organs. Lungs can be strengthened through regular exercise. 

The large intestine stretches to six feet long.

The large intestine is the last stop for food being digested along the gastrointestinal system. After being processed in the small intestine, food enters the large intestine , where it is solidified into waste and stored until it is excreted. The large intestine—also known as the colon—carries this out by dehydrating liquified food and breaking it down via internal bacteria. When unraveled, this organ stretches to six feet long.

The larger your larynx, the deeper your voice.

Also known as a voice box, the larynx contains the vocal cords . Its primary function is to create sounds to form speech, but it also aids in breathing and catching food and other substances from getting caught in the lungs. Generally, the larger a larynx is, the deeper the person's voice will be.

Your spleen is particularly susceptible to injury.

Roughly the size of an avocado in adults, your spleen rests within the left rib cage above the stomach and is part of the lymphatic system. This organ  performs a variety of functions that keep the body healthy , including storing and filtering blood; producing white blood cells and antibodies; and maintaining internal fluid levels. The spleen is particularly susceptible to injury and disorders, and some individuals may have to have the organ removed via a splenectomy.

The mesentery holds your intestines in place.

The mesentery is a series of tissues that secure the intestines to the walls of the abdomen. Though previously thought to be separate organs, researchers recently redefined it as a single organ . Besides preventing the intestines from collapsing into the pelvic region, the mesentery also stores lymph nodes and produces proteins. When inflamed, this organ could be affected by Crohn's Disease, in which individuals can suffer diarrhea as well as difficulties absorbing the nutrients from food.

Your esophagus is key to transporting food into your digestive system.

You might mistake this organ for the trachea, which looks and is situated similarly. However, while the trachea operates within the respiratory system, the esophagus plays a function within the digestive system. Its main role is to move food and liquids down the throat and to the stomach . It does this through a series of muscular contractions: after you swallow, food moves to the throat, and the esophagus begins to push it downwards, while other muscles close to prevent it from traveling up the nose or towards the windpipe.

Your stomach is shaped like a J.

The stomach sits along the gastrointestinal tract and connects to the small intestine. The J-shaped organ plays a key role in digestion by storing and breaking down food . It does this by producing a mixture of enzymes and acids that mix and disintegrate food. The stomach then holds this mixture until it is ready to move on to the small intestine.

Your bladder can hold around two cups of liquid before emptying.

The bladder makes up one-fourth of the urinary tract. This organ  first receives urine from the kidneys . Once the bladder is full, a person will feel an urge to urinate, at which time the bladder helps expel the liquids by contracting and pushing urine into the urethra. This organ is balloon-shaped and can store around two cups of liquid before emptying. 

Your thymus starts decreasing in size post-puberty.

The thymus is part of the lymphatic system and is a gland that is most active during childhood. It starts working even while you're still in utero, and starts slowing its work and decreasing in size post-puberty. Its main function is to process and specialize T-cells , which are a type of white blood cell. After T-cells are passed from the bone marrow to the thymus, they mature there before entering the blood and playing a central role in the body's immune system. The thymus also creates and releases many hormones, all of which support the immune system.  

Your kidneys filter a bathtub's worth of fluid daily.

The kidneys are a central part of the urinary system, receiving and filtering around 200 quarts—or a large bathtub's worth—of fluid daily . After you swallow liquids, the kidneys extract waste from them and turn them into urine, passing them on to the bladder to eventually be expelled. The kidneys also play a role in balancing the body's levels of water and electrolytes. Kidneys are commonly donated between individuals. People in high-impact accidents, or who have diabetes or high blood pressure, are at risk of losing one. 

Your tongue is one of the most visible parts of the digestive system.

The tongue is mostly made up of muscles and is one of the most visible parts of the digestive system. It plays an essential part in allowing a person to chew, speak, and breathe . It does this by moving food around the mouth, working with the larynx to form vocal sounds, and keeping the airways of the lungs accessible. The tongue is also covered in taste buds, which are nerve cells that transmit the five basic taste sensations to our brain: sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and savory.

Your skin is your body's largest organ.

The skin is the body's first defense against bacteria, injury, and temperature fluctuations. It's the body's largest organ and has three layers. The outer layer, the epidermis, works as a protective barrier and continually produces new skin cells throughout the day. The middle layer, the dermis, grows hair, allows you to feel touch and temperature, and produces sweat. Finally, the bottom layer, the hypodermis, provides a fatty cushion for organs and regulates body temperature. Along with our hair, nails, and oil and sweat glands, our skin makes up the integumentary system.

The fallopian tubes transport eggs through the reproductive system.

The fallopian tubes act as pathways connecting the ovaries to the uterus . After eggs leave the ovaries each month during ovulation, they sit in the fallopian tubes, where they are fertilized if sperm makes its way into the reproductive system. Once fertilized, the embryo travels through the fallopian tubes to reach the uterus, where it will implant and remain for the rest of the pregnancy. 

Your throat is made up of muscle.

The throat connects the mouth and nose to the lungs and is comprised of the pharynx and larynx . It's shaped like a tube and is made up of muscle. When air, food, or liquids enter the mouth or nose, they travel immediately to the throat, which then sends them on to either the lungs or the esophagus. Besides eating, drinking, and breathing, the throat also helps the larynx produce speech sounds.

Your tonsils kill bacteria in your mouth.

If you open your mouth wide enough, you'll be able to see your tonsils, which sit in a pair at the back of the throat. It is part of the immune system. When bacteria enter the body through the nose or mouth, they are filtered out by the tonsils , which act as a barrier and repel infection. Tonsils contain many white blood cells that help them kill germs. If the tonsils become infected and are removed via a tonsillectomy, the body will still be able to find other ways to fight off infection and germs. Data reporting by Emma Rubin. Story editing by Brian Budzynski. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire. Photo selection by Abigail Renaud.

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What is the largest organ in your body? The human body has 70 organs, here's the biggest

Your anatomy operates like a machine, it's success hinging on the work of over 70 organs, each with a unique function. From the heart's blood-pumping ability to the liver's filtering power, each component of the human ecosystem forms an integral part of the larger machinery. 

To break down our food, to regulate sugar, to ward off the toxins of the outside world, our bodies depend on organs to ensure survival. But, which organ is the biggest? How about the smallest? Can you live without some of your organs?

Take a deeper look inside your anatomy with the answers to these questions, plus a few bonus facts about your bones, muscles, and organs' helpful counterparts. 

What is the largest organ in the body?

The skin is the largest organ in the body. It is an external rather than an internal organ.

According to National Geographic , the average adult carries around 8 pounds and 22 square feet of skin on their body.

Is skin an organ?

Yes, the skin is an organ, the largest.

It can seem counterintuitive since many of our other organs are unseen. The skin, made up of three layers: the Epidermis , the Dermis and the Hypodermis, is an external organ.  It serves as a very important barrier between the body and bacteria, chemicals, and temperature.

Top 5 largest organs

Healthline reports that the top five largest organs in the human body are:

What to know about your liver

The liver is the body’s largest solid, internal organ. In the upper right part of your abdomen, the liver is your body's filtration system.

It filters toxins out of the blood and produces protein for blood plasma. The liver also produces bile, a product that helps to move waste and break down fats in the small intestine during digestion.

It is a dark brown/red and weighs in at approximately 3 pounds.

How many organs are there in the body?

To date, there are 79 generally recognized organs in the human body, both internal and external. 

What is the strongest muscle in the human body?

This is not a question with a direct answer, as strength has many different measures.

Based on weight, the Library of Congress reports that the strongest muscle in the body is the Masseter. It is one of the four muscles responsible for chewing.

The largest muscle in the human body is the Gluteus Maximus. It is responsible for keeping your posture upright, and is the principal antigravity force working when you walk up stairs.

Other strong muscles include the tongue, heart, uterine muscles, external eye muscles, and Soleus (a muscle found just below the calf).

What is the largest bone in the human body?

It is the longest and strongest bone in your body. The femur is your thigh bone, running from your knee to your hip. It’s a difficult bone to break, but if you do, you’ll likely need surgery.

Which is the smallest organ in the human body?

The pineal gland . It is an incredibly small endocrine gland found in the brain that regulates your circadian rhythm (sleep pattern) by releasing melatonin.

This ever-so-small organ is shaped like a tiny pinecone, hence the name “pine”-al gland.

How many blood types are there?

There are 8 blood types , made from four different blood groups – A, B, AB, and O. Your genetic makeup determines which blood group you will fall into.

Each of these letters or letter combos can be either RhD positive or negative, making the 8 total types:

Why is an artery an organ?

It may spark some confusion that arteries , though a category unto themselves, can be organs as well. The arteries are a critical component of the cardiovascular system, pumping oxygenated blood to the rest of your body.

Artery is the specific term used for this type of blood vessel. Organ is a more broad term that is used to describe a group of tissues that structurally form a functioning, specialized unit of the human anatomy.

Since arteries are made up of tissue, and have a specialized function, they can be classified as organs.

What is the name of the cell type responsible for insulin production?

Beta-cells are responsible for the production of insulin , and then subsequently storing that insulin and secreting it when needed based on concentration levels of glucose and fatty acids in the body.

What organ can you live without?

The human body can feasibly operate without a number of different organs. According to Insider, that list includes:

• Gall bladder
• Lungs (You can’t live without both lungs, but you can survive with just one.)
• Some reproductive organs (People with uteruses sometimes have their uteruses or one or more ovaries removed. Testicles can also be removed.)

Of note, some of these organs can be removed without much modification while others require regular medical treatments or adjustments to make a healthy life in their absence feasible.

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• 21 May 2024

Lab-grown sperm and eggs: ‘epigenetic’ reset in human cells paves the way

• Heidi Ledford

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A sperm cell (right) swims towards a human egg (artificially coloured). Credit: AJ Photo/Science Photo Library

The day when human sperm and eggs can be grown in the laboratory has inched a step closer, with the discovery of a way to recreate a crucial developmental step in a dish 1 .

The advance, described on 20 May in Nature , addresses a major hurdle: how to ensure that the chemical tags on the DNA and associated proteins in artificially produced sperm and eggs are placed properly. These tags are part of a cell’s ‘ epigenome ’ and can influence whether genes are turned on or off. The epigenome changes over a person’s lifetime; during the development of the cells that will eventually give rise to sperm or eggs, these marks must be wiped clean and then reset to their original state .

“Epigenetic reprogramming is key to making the next generation,” says Mitinori Saitou, a stem-cell biologist at Kyoto University in Japan, and a co-author of the paper. He and his team worked out how to activate this reprogramming — something that had been one of the biggest challenges in generating human sperm and eggs in the laboratory, he says.

But Saitou is quick to note that there are further steps left to conquer, and that the epigenetic reprogramming his lab has achieved is not perfect.

“There is still much work to be done and considerable time required to address these challenges,” agrees Fan Guo, a reproductive epigeneticist at the Chinese Academy of Sciences Institute of Zoology in Beijing.

Eggs in a dish

Growing human sperm and eggs in the laboratory would offer hope to some couples struggling with infertility. It would also provide a way to edit disease-causing DNA sequences in sperm and eggs, sidestepping some of the technical complications of making such edits in embryos. And understanding how eggs and sperm develop can give researchers insight into some causes of infertility.

Making mice with two dads: this biologist rewrote the rules on sexual reproduction

But in addition to its technical difficulty, growing eggs and sperm in a dish — called in vitro gametogenesis — would carry weighty social and ethical questions . Genetic modification to prevent diseases, for example, could lead to genetic enhancement to boost traits associated with intelligence or athleticism.

Epigenetic reprogramming is key to the formation of reproductive cells — without it, the primordial cells that would eventually give rise to sperm and eggs stop developing. Furthermore, the epigenome affects gene activity , helping cells with identical DNA sequences to take on unique identities. The epigenome helps to differentiate a brain cell, for example, from a liver cell.

Researchers know how to grow mouse eggs and sperm using stem-cell-like cells generated from skin . But the protocols used don’t work in human cells: “There is a big gap between mice and humans,” says Saitou.

Pressing reset on the epigenome

So Saitou and his colleagues began an arduous search for a way to control epigenetic reprogramming in human cells. They found that a protein called BMP2 was essential for this step and that adding it to their cultures promoted epigenetic reprogramming. The cells grown in this culture were able to progress a step further in their development than were cells in cultures without added BMP2.

After epigenetic reprogramming, the cells’ development halted again. Even so, each step towards in vitro gametogenesis holds “immense significance”, says Guo. Saitou and his colleagues are now hunting for ways to nudge the cells further along the path to becoming sperm and eggs.

Embryos with DNA from three people develop normally in first safety study

The researchers carefully analysed epigenetic marks in their laboratory-grown cells and found that although many of these imprints had been wiped away, a few remained. This means that the reprogramming might be incomplete — which could have serious consequences if such cells were used for reproduction. “If imprinting on even one gene is aberrant, that could lead to disease,” says Saitou.

Such caveats are important to bear in mind, he says: the field of in vitro gametogenesis is advancing rapidly, and these results, along with other developments in the past few years , could fuel speculation and false claims that a solution is just around the corner. “I think in maybe five years or so, things will get more settled,” he says. “And then only the good science will remain.”

Nature 629 , 984 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-01404-x

Murase, Y. et al. Nature https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07526-6 (2024).

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Plastic junk? Researchers find tiny particles in men's testicles

Researchers have detected microplastics in human testicles. Volodymyr Zakharov/Getty Images hide caption

Researchers have detected microplastics in human testicles.

Whether it's our bloodstream, brain, or lungs, microscopic fragments of plastic seem to turn up every time scientists scour a new corner of the human body.

The male reproductive organs are no exception.

New research published this month finds microplastics can build up in the testicles of humans and dogs — raising more questions about the potential health impacts of these particles.

Animal studies have shown exposure to microplastics can impact sperm quality and male fertility, but scientists are still in the early stages of translating this work to human health.

"Microplastics are everywhere," says Dr. John Yu , a toxicologist in the College of Nursing at the University of New Mexico and lead author of the study. "The quantification of those microplastics in humans is the first step to understanding its potential adverse effects."

For the first time, researchers find microplastics deep in the lungs of living people

When he set out to do the study, Yu didn't expect microplastics would have penetrated the male reproductive system so extensively, given the tight blood-tissue barrier around those organs. To his surprise, the research team unearthed a wide range and heavy concentration of microplastics in the testicles of about two dozen men and close to 50 dogs.

The results may also be relevant to a well-documented global decline in sperm count and other problems related to male fertility. This trend has been linked to a host of environmental and lifestyle factors, including certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in plastics.

The growing numbers of studies like this one are "compelling and should be a wake up call for policymakers," says Tracey Woodruff , director of the Environmental Research and Translation for Health Center at the University of California, San Francisco.

How much and what kind of plastics were in the testicles?

This is the largest study to measure how much of these microplastics that permeate the water, food and even air end up in the most intimate recesses of male reproductive anatomy.

It follows a smaller analysis, published last year by a team in China, that detected microplastics in about half a dozen human testicles and in semen.

For the current study, researchers at the University of New Mexico collected the testicles from autopsies of people ranging in age from 16 to 88 and from nearly 50 dogs after they were neutered at local veterinary clinics.

Dogs can function as "sentinel" animals for disease and harmful chemical exposure because they're so embedded in the human environment, plus canine spermatogenesis is more similar to the human process of producing sperm than lab rats, says Yu.

Researchers find a massive number of plastic particles in bottled water

Instead of trying to count each microplastic particle, the researchers were able to quantify the total amount of plastic by dissolving all the biological tissue and separating out the solids.

About 75% of what remained was plastic.

Polyethylene , or PE, made up a large portion of that. It's the most widely used plastic in the world, showing up in packaging, bags and any number of products.

Matthew Campen , who has examined these tiny particles up close, describes them as "shard-like, stabby bits" because of the way they've become "old and brittle and fragmented."

"What they do in the body, we don't know," says Campen, a professor at the UNM College of Pharmacy and one of the authors of the study, "Obviously, little tiny particles can disrupt the way cells behave."

Polyvinyl chloride — what's in PVC piping — emerged as another prominent culprit and was the second most common in the dog testicles. Vinyl chloride is classified as a carcinogen and long-term exposure, for example in drinking water, can increase the risk of cancer.

What's more, Yu and his team found a correlation between lower sperm count in the dog testicles and the presence of PVC (the analysis couldn't be done on the human samples because of how they had been stored).

There was also an association between greater levels of PVC and decreased weight of the testicles. The same was seen with Polyethylene terephthalate , or PET, another common source of plastic, which recent research suggests may be harmful.

Woodruff says weight is a somewhat "crude" marker for the effects on testicular health, although it's frequently used by regulatory agencies to evaluate the impacts of chemicals.

Implications?

The research comes with many caveats and cannot prove microplastics directly cause problems with male fertility. Nonetheless, Yu says the results are "concerning" and lay the foundation for more targeted studies on the "relationship between microplastic exposure and its potential impact on sperm."

An emerging body of evidence suggests microplastics can have toxic effects on reproductive health .

In a 2022 review of the evidence for the state of California, Woodruff and her colleagues concluded that microplastics were "suspected" to harm sperm quality and testicular health, but she says that may soon tip over from "suspected" to "likely" because more high-quality studies are being published.

"In the history of looking at chemical or environmental health issues, at the beginning you see these indicators of health harms and then those that have some type of evidence behind them just tend to grow," says Woodruff, "I anticipate we're just going to see more health harms from these microplastics."

In the University of New Mexico study, the concentration of microplastics in human testicles was on average three times higher than in dogs.

Campen says there are still many unknowns, like what specific concentration would pose a threat to health, or how that might vary depending on the kind of microplastic or where they accumulate in the body.

"We're just at the tip of the iceberg," says Campen, who has used this same technique to quantify the levels of microplastics in other tissues and organs.

The amount in the testicles is considerably higher than what was discovered in placenta, and second to what they observed in the brain, says Yu.

Exactly how the microplastics are making their way into the testicles requires further study. Campen suspects they could be "hitchhiking" through the gut via tiny fat particles that get metabolized and then fan out across the body.

It's plausible the build-up of microplastics in the testicles could affect reproductive health in any number of ways. Yu says microplastics could physically disrupt spermatogenesis, mess with the barrier between the testicles, or be a vehicle for harmful chemicals.

They could lead to inflammation and cause oxidative stress, which down the road might affect fertility, says Dr. Sarah Krzastek , a urologist at Virginia Commonwealth University.

"It's probably one more piece of the puzzle of things that are contributing to declines in male fertility over the years as these environmental exposures keep accumulating," she says, "We don't know the clinical ramifications of that yet."

Richard Lea , a reproductive biologist at the University of Nottingham, calls the findings "alarming."

"Having something unnatural like that in the testes is not particularly good news for good reproductive health," says Lea.

In his lab, Lea has found that exposure to phthalates , which are chemicals that can leach from plastics, can reduce the ability of sperm to swim and increase the fragmentation of DNA in the sperm head. This is one likely contributor to the decline in sperm quality in household dogs over the last several decades, a trend that mirrors what's seen in humans.

Of course, the testicles are just one part of the male reproductive system.

Lea says there's now research showing these chemical contaminants can affect the hormonal control of reproduction, at different levels in the body, including in the brain.

How to study a substance that is ubiquitous

Dr. Shanna Swan , a reproductive epidemiologist who has documented the global decline in sperm count, says she's concerned about the accumulation of microplastics. But it's not yet clear finding them in the testicles rather than other parts of the body is more worrisome from the standpoint of reproductive health.

For example in her work, she's looked at how prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates can affect male reproductive function and "lead to lifetime of reproductive damage."

Swan says a limitation running through many of the recent studies on microplastics is that the samples may be inadvertently exposed to microplastics in the environment and that leads to skewed impressions of what was actually present in the person.

She notes there were similar quality control issues nearly a quarter century ago when scientists first started measuring phthalates in human tissues.

"I think there have to be a lot of caveats saying this is really the beginning," says Swan, a professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, "It's suggestive, it's important, and it's preliminary."

The University of New Mexico researchers developed a quality control process to protect the samples from being accidentally exposed to microplastics as much as possible. Campen says there's so much plastic in the human body, the amount that might contaminate the samples is "trivial."

More broadly, though, he acknowledges the field faces some huge challenges moving forward — especially as they try to draw a stronger link between these tiny particles and a decline in reproductive health or disease.

"A lot of the problem is they're so ubiquitous. There are no proper controls anymore. Right? Everybody's exposed," he says.

• men's reproductive health
• plastic pollution
• microplastics
• reproductive health
• endocrine disrupters

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