Can BPA affect gut cell energy production?
Cell evidence says yes. A 2026 Toxicology study found BPA reduced mitochondrial respiration and membrane potential in human intestinal Caco-2 cells.
What's actually in it
BPA (bisphenol A) is used in some polycarbonate plastics and food packaging materials. It can migrate into food and drinks, especially with heat or long contact.
Gut cells need steady energy from mitochondria. Mitochondria help cells run basic functions and handle stress.
What the research says
A 2026 study in Toxicology exposed human intestinal Caco-2 cells to BPA and measured mitochondrial function.
In intact cells, BPA reduced respiration rate. In permeabilized cells, BPA reduced respiratory activity with complex I and complex II substrates and lowered mitochondrial membrane potential.
The researchers also reported that BPA reached mitochondria without membrane permeabilization and impaired oxidative phosphorylation. This was a cell study, so it does not prove that one plastic container causes gut disease.
What to do at home
Reduce repeat food-contact plastic first. Do not heat food in plastic. Store leftovers in glass containers, especially warm, oily, or acidic foods.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Deleterious effects of plastic component bisphenol a on mitochondrial function in human intestinal cells. | Toxicology | 2026 |