Response on the commentary by B. Wilhelmus, M. Gahleitner, and M. A. Pemberton, on the manuscript by M. Brits, M.J.M. van Velzen, F.Ö. Sefiloglu, L. Scibetta, Q. Groenewoud, J.J. Garcia-Vallejo, A.D. Vethaak, S.H. Brandsma, M.H. Lamoree. Quantitation of micro and nanoplastics in human blood by pyrolysis-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry: a follow-up study. Microplastics and Nanoplastics (2024) 4:12

This is a response on the commentary paper by B. Wilhelmus, M. Gahleitner, and M. A. Pemberton, on our paper “Quantitation of Micro and Nanoplastics in Human Blood by Pyrolysis-Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry: a follow-up study” that was published in Microplastics and Nanoplastics (2024) 4:12. We have provided answers to their questions regarding the limitations they see in the use of pyrolysis gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, especially with regard to identification of polymers, quantification, sensitivity and reliability. Furthermore, a brief reflection on the state-of-the-art and the way forward to advance the quantitative analysis of micro- and nanoplastics in human materials is provided by giving a few specific recommendations. We also call for carrying out research with an open mind in multidisciplinary teams in a collaborative manner.