Can BPA affect mitochondria in human intestinal cells?
Yes, in a cell study. A 2026 Toxicology paper found BPA reduced mitochondrial respiration and membrane potential in human intestinal Caco-2 cells.
What is actually in it
Bisphenol A, or BPA, is used in some polycarbonate plastics and food packaging. BPA can move from plastic food contact materials into food under some conditions.
Your intestinal cells need healthy mitochondria. These parts of the cell help make energy.
What the research says
A 2026 study in Toxicology tested acute BPA exposure in human intestinal Caco-2 cells.
The researchers found that BPA reduced respiration in intact cells. In permeabilized cells, BPA lowered respiratory activity with complex I and complex II substrates, reduced electron transport chain oxidative capacity, and depolarized mitochondrial membrane potential.
Electron microscopy suggested BPA was internalized by endocytosis. The authors concluded that BPA compromised oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial membrane potential in these intestinal cells.
This is a cell study, not a direct test of one home container. A practical step is to avoid storing hot or oily food in plastic. Use glass storage for leftovers when you can.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Deleterious effects of plastic component bisphenol a on mitochondrial function in human intestinal cells. | Toxicology | 2026 |