Associations of prenatal PFAS exposure and early childhood neurodevelopment: Evidence from the Shanghai Maternal-Child Pairs Cohort

Effects of early-life F-53B exposure on thyroid function in juvenile rats: The role of the cAMP signaling pathway

Chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonate (F-53B), a substitute for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), exerts a stronger effect on neonatal thyroid hormone (TH) than PFOS. However, limited data on its thyrotoxicity complicates early-life risk assessment. Here, Sprague-Dawley rats were gavaged with F-53B (0, 8, 80, 800 μg/kg/d) for 63 days, from two weeks pre-pregnancy to two weeks post-weaning. The results showed F-53B accumulated in the juvenile rats thyroids, causing thyroid follicle colloid rupture and dysgenesis, marked by reduced thyroid transcription factor 1 and elevated paired box gene 8 expression. Furthermore, F-53B affects TH synthesis by decreasing the expression of thyroid peroxidase and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor, and increasing type II deiodinase activity. In plasma, F-53B raised total thyroxine (TT4), suppressed free triiodothyronine and free thyroxine (FT4) levels, and lowered the FT4/TT4 ratio. Mechanistically, F-53B binds to the ligand-binding pockets of key downregulated genes (Calcitonin-related polypeptide alpha and Somatostatin) in the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) pathway. This promoted the lower expressions of protein kinase A in the thyroid follicular cytoplasm and phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (p-CREB1-S133) in the nucleus, potentially weakening TH synthesis genes transcription. Overall, this work provides pioneering insights into the thyrotoxicity mechanisms of F-53B, laying a foundation for endocrine risk assessment.

Maternal psychological distress modifies the association between prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and infants' neurodevelopment

Prenatal PFAS exposure and maternal psychological distress may adversely affect child neurodevelopment through shared biological pathways, such as hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis disruption and pro-inflammatory responses. However, whether psychological distress modifies PFAS-related neurodevelopmental risks remains unclear. Using data from the Shanghai Birth Cohort including 1779 mother-child pairs, we measured maternal PFAS levels during the first trimester and assessed maternal psychological distress (perceived stress, depression, and anxiety) during the second trimester. Child neurodevelopment was evaluated at 6 months of age using the Ages & Stages Questionnaires-Third Edition (ASQ-3). Multivariable regression models and quantile g-computation were conducted to evaluate the associations of ASQ-3 scores with individual and mixture PFAS. Stratified analyses were conducted between the psychological distress positive group (experienced any one type of stressor) and negative group (experienced no stressors). We found that 41 % of pregnant women experienced at least one type of psychological distress. Among the overall participants, maternal PFAS exposure was associated with reduced gross motor scores in children. Maternal psychological distress status modified the association between PFAS and gross motor scores. Specifically, the adverse associations of PFAS with gross motor development were only observed in the psychological distress positive group, while no association was found in the negative group. Significant interaction effects were observed between maternal psychological distress and most PFAS compounds (all P for interaction <0.1). Furthermore, the adverse associations of prenatal PFAS exposure with gross motor development intensified in women experiencing multiple types of psychological stressors. This study indicates that maternal psychological distress may increase the risk of PFAS-related adverse gross motor development in six-month-old children. Investigating maternal psychological distress could be crucial for identifying vulnerable populations and guiding intervention measures.

Health Impacts of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs): A Comprehensive Review

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are among the persistent organic pollutants characterized by their persistence in the environment, high mobility, and adverse impact not only on the ecosystem but also on human health. The biggest challenges in human biomonitoring are the low concentrations of PFASs in biological matrices and the presence of matrix interferents in samples. The combination of liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and solid-phase extraction (SPE) as a sample preparation technique appears to be the most suitable solution for achieving the desired selectivity and sensitivity in PFAS determination. The aim of this review is to describe possible sources of PFASs, their presence in various human matrices, analytical methods for determining PFASs in different biological matrices using various pretreatment techniques for complex samples, as well as adverse health risks associated with PFAS exposure. The most studied PFASs include PFOA and PFOS, which are most frequently detected in matrices such as plasma, serum, and breast milk. The average concentrations of PFOA range from 1.0 to 2.6 ng.mL-1 in plasma, 1.9 to 2.4 ng.mL-1 in serum, and 0.4 to 3.1 ng.mL-1 in breast milk. For PFOS, the average concentrations were 2.0-4.0 ng.mL-1, 3.7-4.6 ng.mL-1, and 3.6-4.8 ng.mL-1 for plasma, serum, and breast milk, respectively. The most significant health effects associated with exposure to long-chain PFASs (such as PFOA and PFOS) include lipid disorders, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, infertility, cancer, obesity, autism, neurodevelopmental issues, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney and liver disorders. It is of utmost importance to monitor PFAS exposure, predict their toxicity, and develop effective strategies to mitigate their potential effects on human health.

Impact of prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances on developmental delays in 4-year-old children: The Japan Environment and Children's study

Although per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have raised global concern due to their adverse effects on children's development, the association between prenatal exposure to PFAS and the achievement of developmental milestones in preschool children remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the individual and cumulative associations between prenatal PFAS and developmental delay in 4-year-old children. We used data from 15,131 mothers (15,175 children) in the Japan Environment and Children Study (JECS), an ongoing nationwide prospective birth cohort. Among 28 PFAS measured in maternal plasma, eight with detection frequencies ≥ 60 % were analyzed. Developmental delays were assessed using the Japanese version of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires third edition (JASQ-3), a self-administered screening tool, with suspicion of developmental delay indicated by total scores falling below the Japanese version cutoffs for the five JASQ-3 domains (communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem solving, and personal-social). Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis and quantile g-computation were applied. Findings revealed that these eight PFAS were not significantly associated with higher odds of developmental delay across any JASQ-3 domain, nor did their combined effects. However, the effects of PFAS substances not measured in this study and the impact of continued postnatal exposure to PFAS on developmental delays remain a concern. Continuous investigation of the effects of PFAS on development throughout the lifespan is necessary.

Paternal and Maternal Exposures to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Child Behavioral Difficulties: A Parental Comparison Study

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread environmental pollutants with documented developmental toxicity. Prior research of prenatal PFAS exposure and offspring neurodevelopment did not consider the possible influence from paternal exposure. Using the INUENDO cohort, we studied 334 father-mother-singleton triads enrolled from antenatal clinics in Greenland, Poland, and Ukraine. We measured five PFAS in parental serum samples collected around the 31 weeks of gestation. We assessed child behavioral difficulties at ages 5-9 years by the parent-rated Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire using country- and sex-specific cut-offs (≥90th percentile). We performed analyses stratified by child's sex, coadjusting for maternal or paternal PFAS and other confounders and estimating PFAS mixture effects using quantile g-computation. In male children, multiple maternal PFAS, modeled as individual chemicals or a mixture, were associated with externalizing difficulties. Maternal perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) was associated with internalizing difficulties in female children. In contrast, paternal exposure to individual PFAS or PFAS mixture was not associated with behavioral difficulties in children of either sex. In summary, maternal prenatal exposure to PFAS, but not paternal PFAS, was associated with mid-childhood behavioral difficulties in a sex-specific manner. Comparing the parent-specific PFAS associations strengthened evidence against confounding shared in the family.

Neuromotor effects of early-life exposure to a mixture of endocrine disruptors in Belgian preschool children

OBJECTIVE

Children gradually develop motor skills that enable them to move efficiently in various daily activities such as self-care, academics and sports. The impact of prenatal exposure to endocrine disruptors (EDCs) on these performances remains understudied and current results are inconsistent. This study aims at examining the neuromotor function of Belgian preschoolers exposed in utero to a mixture of some of these chemicals.

METHODS

From 2014 to 2016, 66 children (35 boys and 31 girls) were recruited for a longitudinal cohort study. Two polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and four perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were measured in cord serum. A standardized motor evaluation, the Movement Assessment Battery for Children II (MABC-II), and a clinical sensori-motor assessment examining minor neurological dysfunction were administered at 6 years of age. The impact of the mixture of EDCs on neuromotor outcome measures was evaluated using two validated statistical models. Sex-specific analyses were also conducted.

RESULTS

Using a principal component analysis, a negative association was identified between a mixture of PCB-153 and - 180 and the Total Clinical examination score in the whole population (β (95% CI) = -15.8 (-26.51; -5.09), p = 0.005). After stratification by sex, negative associations were observed between the Gross Motor score of the MABC-II test and prenatal exposure to a mixture of PFASs and PCB-180, specifically in boys. This association was consistent across both the weighted quantile sum regression model (β (95% CI) = -2.36 (-3.42; -0.62), p = 0.023) and the principal component approach (β (95% CI) = -1.09 (-2.15; -0.13), p = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the neuromotor function of young children is adversely influenced by prenatal exposure to toxicants in a sex-specific manner.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Consumer Products: An Overview of the Occurrence, Migration, and Exposure Assessment

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been widely used in the production of consumer products globally due to the excellent water and oil resistance and anti-fouling properties. The multiple toxic effects of some PFASs also pose a threat to human health and ecosystem, and the frequent use of certain consumer products increased the risk of human exposure to PFASs. More data on the occurrence, concentration, and migration of PFASs in consumer products is urgently needed to address the possible risks posed by exposure to consumer products. This paper reviews the PFAS concentrations found, the migration characteristics known, and the exposure risks of PFASs arising from several types of consumer products over the last five years. The types of consumer products considered here include food contact materials, textiles, and disposable personal hygiene products. The influence of different factors on the migration process of PFASs from these products are summarized and discussed. Additionally, the main approaches and models of exposure assessment are evaluated and summarized. Current challenges and future research prospects in this field are discussed with a view to providing guidance for the future assessment and regulation of PFASs in consumer products.

White matter microstructural integrity mediates associations between prenatal endocrine-disrupting chemicals exposure and intelligence in adolescents

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are well-known endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that potentially affect child neurodevelopment. We aimed to investigate the effects of prenatal exposure to PFAS and PAEs on macro- and micro-structural brain development and intelligence in adolescents using multimodal neuroimaging techniques. We employed structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and various diffusion MRI techniques, including diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI), and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI), to assess the gray-matter macrostructure and white-matter microstructural integrity and complexity. Participants were drawn from a birth cohort of 52 mother-child pairs in central Taiwan recruited in 2001, and the adolescent intelligence quotient (IQ) scores were assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale. Nine PFAS concentrations of cord blood and maternal serum samples were obtained from the children's mothers during the third trimester of pregnancy (27-40 weeks) using a liquid chromatography system coupled to a triple-quadrupole mass spectrometer, while maternal urinary phthalates were used to evaluate PAEs exposure. Our results showed significant associations between prenatal exposure to PFAS and phthalates with changes in specific fronto-parietal regions of the adolescent male brain, including reduced cortical thickness in the inferior frontal gyrus and right superior parietal cortex, which are involved in language, memory, and executive function. A dose-response association was observed, with higher levels of PFAS and PAE exposure modulating altered white-matter fiber integrity in the superior cerebellar peduncle and inferior cerebellar peduncle of the male and female adolescent brains. In addition, higher levels of prenatal exposure to EDCs were associated with lower IQ scores in adolescents. Mediation analyses further revealed that white-matter microstructure of inter-hemispheric and cerebellar fibers mediated the association between prenatal EDC exposure and adolescent IQ scores in female adolescents. Our multimodal human neuroimaging findings suggest that prenatal exposure to EDCs may have long-lasting effects on neuroanatomical development, neural fiber connectivity, and intelligence in adolescents, and highlight the importance of using advanced diffusion imaging techniques, including DKI and NODDI, to detect neurodevelopmental changes and their brain-behavioral consequences with the risks associated with these environmental exposures.

Maternal concentrations of perfluoroalkyl sulfonates and alterations in white matter microstructure in the developing brains of young children

BACKGROUND

Maternal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has been linked to child neurodevelopmental difficulties. Neuroimaging research has linked these neurodevelopmental difficulties to white matter microstructure alterations, but the effects of PFAS on children's white matter microstructure remains unclear. We investigated associations between maternal blood concentrations of six common perfluoroalkyl sulfonates and white matter alterations in young children using longitudinal neuroimaging data.

METHODS

This study included 84 maternal-child pairs from a Canadian pregnancy cohort. Maternal second trimester blood concentrations of perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHxS) and five perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) isomers were quantified. Children underwent magnetic resonance imaging scans between ages two and six (279 scans total). Adjusted linear mixed models investigated associations between each exposure and white matter fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD).

RESULTS

Higher maternal concentrations of perfluoroalkyl sulfonates were associated with higher MD and lower FA in the body and splenium of the corpus callosum of young children. Multiple sex-specific associations were found. In males, PFHxS was negatively associated with FA in the superior longitudinal fasciculus, while PFOS isomers were positively associated with MD in the inferior longitudinal fasciculus (ILF). In females, PFOS isomers were positively associated with FA in the pyramidal fibers and MD in the fornix, but negatively associated with MD in the ILF.

CONCLUSION

Maternal exposure to perfluoroalkyl sulfonates may alter sex-specific white matter development in young children, potentially contributing to neurodevelopmental difficulties. Larger studies are needed to replicate these findings and examine the neurotoxicity of these chemicals.

Utilization of Artificial Intelligence Coupled with a High-Throughput, High-Content Platform in the Exploration of Neurodevelopmental Toxicity of Individual and Combined PFAS

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals used in various products, such as firefighting foams and non-stick cookware, due to their resistance to heat and degradation. However, these same properties make them persistent in the environment and human body, raising public health concerns. This study selected eleven PFAS commonly found in drinking water and exposed Caenorhabditis elegans to concentrations ranging from 0.1 to 200 µM to assess neurodevelopmental toxicity using a high-throughput, high-content screening (HTS) platform coupled with artificial intelligence for image analysis. Our findings showed that PFAS such as 6:2 FTS, HFPO-DA, PFBA, PFBS, PFHxA, and PFOS inhibited dopaminergic neuron activity, with fluorescence intensity reductions observed across concentrations from 0.1 to 100 µM. PFOS and PFBS also disrupted synaptic transmission, causing reduced motility and increased paralysis in aldicarb-induced assays, with the most pronounced effects at higher concentrations. These impairments in both neuron activity and synaptic function led to behavioral deficits. Notably, PFOS was one of the most toxic PFAS, affecting multiple neurodevelopmental endpoints. These results emphasize the developmental risks of PFAS exposure, highlighting the impact of both individual compounds and mixtures on neurodevelopment. This knowledge is essential for assessing PFAS-related health risks and informing mitigation strategies.

Effects of Early-life PFAS Exposure on Child Neurodevelopment: A Review of the Evidence and Research gaps

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent chemicals with many modern applications, leading to widespread contamination and universal human exposure. PFAS exposure during early life is of particular concern, given susceptibility of the developing fetal and infant brain to toxic exposures. This review aims to synthesize current evidence, discuss methodological challenges, and highlight research gaps to guide future studies on the impact of PFAS on neurodevelopment.

RECENT FINDINGS

Sixty-one studies in total were published from 2008 to March 2024, with 35 in the last five years. Findings primarily link early life PFAS exposure to reduced cognitive, motor, and language development in infancy and increased behavioral issues like hyperactivity in childhood. Large studies have shown mixed results concerning child cognition, executive function, autism, and ADHD, with some indicating no association or unexpected protective findings. Sex-specific associations have been observed, but not consistently. Most research has addressed low-level exposure, suggesting subtle but potentially significant population-wide neurodevelopmental effects. Recent research also highlights concerns about newer, alternative PFAS, suggesting they too might affect neurodevelopment.  The effects of early-life PFAS exposure on neurodevelopment merit further study, particularly the cumulative effects of prenatal and postnatal exposures. Research has not fully explored sensitive subgroups or potential mitigating factors such as breastfeeding and nutrient intake, which will require larger, more diverse samples. Future directions include deeper study of PFAS mixtures, interactions with other neurotoxic environmental chemicals, and effects of newer PFAS types. There is also a need to focus on neuropsychological functioning in later childhood, using direct assessments for more reliable evaluations.

Unveiling the Research Void: Exploring the Reproductive Effects of PFAS Compounds on Male Health

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) represent an emerging concern for male reproductive health. Epidemiological studies have reported associations between increased PFAS exposure and reduced semen quality parameters, lower sperm counts, and potential alterations in reproductive hormone levels. Toxicology research has revealed possible mechanisms including blood-testis barrier disruption, oxidative stress, interference with testicular cell function, and epigenetic changes. However, significant uncertainties remain regarding definitive exposure-response relationships, developmental windows of heightened vulnerability, combined mixture effects, and causality interpretation, given limitations inherent to observational studies. Ongoing investigation of short-chain and replacement PFAS compounds is also critically needed. Additionally, directly connecting the mechanistic insights from animal models to human fertility impacts remains challenging. While controlled toxicology studies have described pathways by which PFAS could impair cellular functioning in the testes, uncertainty persists in extrapolating these experimental effects to real-world human exposures and sperm parameter declines reported epidemiologically. Overall, current findings suggest PFAS may contribute to declining male reproductive function, but additional clarification through well-designed longitudinal cohort studies integrated with mechanistic animal work is still warranted to confirm exposure-fertility links across a range of PFAS types and inform evidence-based public health mitigation strategies.

Exposure to PFOA, PFOS, and PFHxS induces Alzheimer's disease-like neuropathology in cerebral organoids

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), a class of ubiquitous synthetic organic chemicals, are widely utilized across various industrial applications. However, the long-term neurological health effects of PFAS mixture exposure in humans remain poorly understood. To address this gap, we have designed a comprehensive study to predict and validate cell-type-specific neurotoxicity of PFASs using single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and cerebral organoids. Cerebral organoids were exposed to a PFAS mixture at concentrations of 1 × (10 ng/ml PFOS and PFOA, and 1 ng/ml PFHxS), 30 × , and 900 × over 35 days, with a follow-up analysis at day 70. Pathological alterations and lipidomic profiles were analyzed to identify disrupted molecular pathways and mechanisms. The scRNA-seq data revealed a significant impact of PFASs on neurons, suggesting a potential role in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) pathology, as well as intellectual and cognitive impairments. PFAS-treated cerebral organoids exhibited Aβ accumulation and tau phosphorylation. Lipidomic analyses further revealed lipid disturbances in response to PFAS mixture exposure, linking PFAS-induced AD-like neuropathology to sphingolipid metabolism disruption. Collectively, our findings provide novel insights into the PFAS-induced neurotoxicity, highlighting the significance of sphingolipid metabolism in the development of AD-like neuropathology. The use of cerebral organoids and scRNA-seq offers a powerful methodology for evaluating the health risks associated with environmental contaminants, particularly those with neurotoxic potential.

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) accelerate biological aging mediated by increased C-reactive protein

Unhealthy biological aging is related to higher incidence of varied age-related diseases, even higher all-cause mortality. Previous small sample size study suggested that Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) was associated with biological aging, but the evidence of exposure-response relationships, potential effect modifiers, and potential mediators were not investigated. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of national study including 14, 865 adults in the US from 8 survey cycles of NHANES from 2003 to 2018, to investigate the associations of PFAS compounds in body serum, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), with biological aging. Generalized linear models showed that higher human exposure to PFAS was associated with accelerated biological aging. Importantly, human exposure to PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, and PFHxS with detected level (above 0.10 ng/mL) was associated with an average of 3.3 year (95 %CI: 2.7, 3.9, P < 0.001), 14.9 year (95 %CI: 7.2, 22.7, P < 0.001), 10.9 years (95 %CI: 3.9, 17.7, P < 0.001), and 8.8 years (95 %CI: 4.8, 12.9, P < 0.001) of biological aging acceleration. Cubic spline models indicated exposure-response relationships where there was no safe threshold of PFAS level regarding harms to human healthy aging. The weighted sum regression model found the significant associations of PFAS compound mixture with biological aging acceleration, and PFOA was the dominant contributor among 4 PFAS compounds. Mediation analysis suggested that C-reactive protein, one of the inflammation biomarkers, might play as mediator in PFAS-induced accelerated biological aging, but not Triglyceride-glucose index. In summary, our study suggests that the effects of PFAS on biological aging acceleration should be of concern and more action plans to address their negative impact on human health should be launched.

Adverse outcome pathway for the neurotoxicity of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances: A systematic review

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are endocrine disruptors with unambiguous neurotoxic effects. However, due to variability in experimental models, population characteristics, and molecular endpoints, the elucidation of mechanisms underlying PFAS-induced neurotoxicity remains incomplete. In this review, we utilized the adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework, a comprehensive tool for evaluating toxicity across multiple biological levels (molecular, cellular, tissue and organ, individual, and population), to elucidate the mechanisms of neurotoxicity induced by PFAS. Based on 271 studies, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation emerged as the molecular initiating event 1 (MIE1). Subsequent key events (KEs) at the cellular level include oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, apoptosis, altered Ca2+ signal transduction, glutamate and dopamine signaling dyshomeostasis, and reduction of cholinergic and serotonin. These KEs culminate in synaptic dysfunction at organ and tissue levels. Further insights were offered into MIE2 and upstream KEs associated with altered thyroid hormone levels, contributing to synaptic dysfunction and hypomyelination at the organ and tissue levels. The inhibition of Na+/I- symporter (NIS) was identified as the MIE2, initiating a cascade of KEs at the cellular level, including altered thyroid hormone synthesis, thyroid hormone transporters, thyroid hormone metabolism, and binding with thyroid hormone receptors. All KEs ultimately result in adverse outcomes (AOs), including cognition and memory impairment, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, and neuromotor development impairment. To our knowledge, this review represents the first comprehensive and systematic AOP analysis delineating the intricate mechanisms responsible for PFAS-induced neurotoxic effects, providing valuable insights for risk assessments and mitigation strategies against PFAS-related health hazards.

Effects on Synaptic Plasticity Markers in Fetal Mice and HT22 Neurons upon F-53B Exposure: The Role of PKA Cytoplasmic Retention

Chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (F-53B), a chromium-fog depressant widely utilized as an alternative to perfluorooctanesulfonate, can transfer from mother to fetus. Recent research has demonstrated that prenatal exposure to F-53B results in synaptic damage in weaning mice. However, the mechanism underpinning F-53B-triggered synaptic damage during fetal development remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the role of the protein kinase A (PKA)/cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) pathway, a crucial signaling mechanism known as "synaptic switch", in the early neurotoxicity of F-53B exposure both in vivo and in vitro. Here, C57BL/6 fetal mice were subjected to exposure to F-53B (0, 4, and 40 μg/L) from gestation days (GD) 0 to 14 to evaluate nerve injury prior to delivery. HT22 neurons exposed to F-53B (0, 0.016, 0.08, 0.4, 2, and 10 μmol/L) for 24 h were utilized to elucidate the underlying mechanism. Our results demonstrated that F-53B significantly increased the fluorescence intensity of Nestin (a neural stem cell marker) in the fetal brain hippocampus (GD14). Subsequently, we found that F-53B downregulated the expression of synaptic plasticity markers (SYP, GAP43, and BDNF) in the fetal brain and HT22 neurons. Further molecular docking analysis revealed that F-53B fits into the ligand-binding pockets of PKA and CREB1. Results showed that F-53B inhibited the translocation of PKA protein from the cytoplasm to the neuronal nuclei and reduced the levels of PKA, CREB1, p-PKA(α/β/γ)-Thr197, and p-CREB1-S133 in the nucleus. Furthermore, the expression of synaptic plasticity markers altered by F-53B could be reversed by a PKA agonist and was intensified by a PKA antagonist. In summary, our findings suggest that intrauterine exposure to F-53B can weaken the expression of synaptic plasticity markers in the fetal brain, with this neurotoxicity being mediated by the cytoplasmic retention of PKA.

Innovative techniques for combating a common enemy forever chemicals: A comprehensive approach to mitigating per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination

The pervasive presence of per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as "forever chemicals," in water systems poses a significant threat to both the environment and public health. PFAS are persistent organic pollutants that are incredibly resistant to degradation and have a tendency to accumulate in the environment, resulting in long-term contamination issues. This comprehensive review delves into the primary impacts of PFAS on both the environment and human health while also delving into advanced techniques aimed at addressing these concerns. The focus is on exploring the efficacy, practicality, and sustainability of these methods. The review outlines several key methods, such as advanced oxidation processes, novel materials adsorption, bioremediation, membrane filtration, and in-situ chemical oxidation, and evaluates their effectiveness in addressing PFAS contamination. By conducting a comparative analysis of these techniques, the study aims to provide a thorough understanding of current PFAS remediation technologies, as well as offer insights into integrated approaches for managing these persistent pollutants effectively. While acknowledging the high efficiency of adsorption and membrane filtration in reducing persistent organic pollutants due to their relatively low cost, versatility, and wide applicability, the review suggests that the integration of these methods could result in an overall enhancement of removal performance. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for researcher attention in key areas and underscores the necessity of collaboration between researchers, industry, and regulatory authorities to address this complex challenge.

Deep eutectic solvent-functionalized amorphous UiO-66 for efficient extraction and ultrasensitive analysis of perfluoroalkyl substances in infant milk powder

In this study, a convenient and effective method for determination of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in infant formula was developed based on a novel dispersive solid-phase extraction using deep eutectic solvent-functionalized amorphous UiO-66 (DES/aUiO-66) as sorbent. The synthesis of materials could be achieved without the use of complex and environmentally unfriendly procedures. Parameters were systematically investigated to establish a simple, fast, and efficient green pretreatment method. The method demonstrated high sensitivity, good precision, a detection limit of 0.330-0.529 ng·kg-1, and low matrix effects (< 12.8%). The mechanism for this material was elucidated by ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations and quantum chemistry calculations. The presence of massive pore structures and collectively synergistic binding sites facilitated affinity adsorption toward PFASs. Finally, this method was applied to the monitoring of PFASs in 10 actual milk powder samples. This groundbreaking approach opens new possibilities for the advancement of analytical techniques and food safety monitoring.

Development of a Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Model for F-53B in Pregnant Mice and Its Extrapolation to Humans

Chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonic acid (F-53B), a commonly utilized alternative for perfluorooctane sulfonate, was detected in pregnant women and cord blood recently. However, the lack of detailed toxicokinetic information poses a significant challenge in assessing the human risk assessment for F-53B exposure. Our study aimed to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for pregnant mice, based on toxicokinetic experiments, and extrapolating it to humans. Pregnant mice were administered 80 μg/kg F-53B orally and intravenously on gestational day 13. F-53B concentrations in biological samples were analyzed via ultraperformance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results showed the highest F-53B accumulation in the brain, followed by the placenta, amniotic fluid, and liver in fetal mice. These toxicokinetic data were applied to F-53B PBPK model development and evaluation, and Monte Carlo simulations were used to characterize the variability and uncertainty in the human population. Most of the predictive values were within a 2-fold range of experimental data (>72%) and had a coefficient of determination (R2) greater than 0.68. The developed mouse model was then extrapolated to the human and evaluated with human biomonitoring data. Our study provides an important step toward improving the understanding of toxicokinetics of F-53B and enhancing the quantitative risk assessments in sensitive populations, particularly in pregnant women and fetuses.

Engineering human midbrain organoid microphysiological systems to model prenatal PFOS exposure

Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a class of synthetic chemicals detected in various environmental compartments, has been associated with dysfunctions of the human central nervous system (CNS). However, the underlying neurotoxicology of PFOS exposure is largely understudied due to the lack of relevant human models. Here, we report bioengineered human midbrain organoid microphysiological systems (hMO-MPSs) to recapitulate the response of a fetal human brain to multiple concurrent PFOS exposure conditions. Each hMO-MPS consists of an hMO on a fully 3D printed holder device with a perfusable organoid adhesion layer for enhancing air-liquid interface culturing. Leveraging the unique, simply-fabricated holder devices, hMO-MPSs are scalable, easy to use, and compatible with conventional well-plates, and allow easy transfer onto a multiple-electrode array (MEA) system for plug-and-play measurement of neural activity. Interestingly, the neural activity of hMO-MPSs initially increased and subsequently decreased by exposure to a concentration range of 0, 30, 100, to 300 μM of PFOS. Furthermore, PFOS exposure impaired neural development and promoted neuroinflammation in the engineered hMO-MPSs. Along with PFOS, our platform is broadly applicable for studies toxicology of various other environmental pollutants.

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and nutrients from two constructed wetlands in a city of southeastern China

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large class of toxic contaminants. Nutrients are closely related to the ecological health of aquatic systems. Both have received widespread global attention. This study investigated the concentrations, compositions, and spatial distributions of PFAS and nutrients in surface water from two constructed wetlands and the nearby drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). We explored the natural environmental factors and human activities that affect the composition and distribution of pollutants in wetlands and assessed the ability of the DWTPs to remove contaminants. Concentrations of ∑32PFAS varied from 153 to 405 ng/L. Hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid (HFPO-TA) was the predominant substance accounting for 45 % of ∑32PFAS concentrations. It might originate from the emissions of indirect sources of PFAS related manufacturers. The detection rate of 6:2 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (6:2 FTCA) was 100 % with concentrations ranging from 0.915 to 19.7 ng/L 6:2 FTCA might come from the biotransformation of indirect sources in the air. Concentrations of total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) were from 1.47 to 3.54 mg/L, and non-detect (ND) to 0.323 mg/L, respectively. Constructed wetlands could effectively remove PFAS under nutrient stress, however, the removal of PFAS depends on the characteristics of specific compounds and their sources. The removal rates for PFAS and nutrients could be promoted through artificial dredging. But wetland bioremediation could have two opposing effects. On the one hand, plants can take up pollutants from water via roots, leading to pollutant removal and purification. On the other hand, plants may also absorb precursor intermediates from the air through leaves and release them into the water, leading to increased pollutant concentrations. Thirty-two emerging PFAS were identified by high resolution mass spectrum. The drinking water treatment process removed PFAS and nutrients below the drinking water quality standards of China, however, 9 non-target PFAS compounds were still found in tap water. These results provide case support and a theoretical basis for the pollution control and sustainable development of typical ecological wetlands used as drinking water sources.

Assessment of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances and physiological biomarkers in aquarium-based bottlenose dolphins and killer whales

Environmental concerns about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are considerably increasing due to their extensive use in commercial and consumer products. PFAS bioaccumulate and biomagnify throughout the food chain, and their toxicity and potential adverse health effects can potentially represent a threat to living organisms. In this study, we described PFAS profiles in the serum of two species of zoo-based bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus, n = 14 individuals) and killer whales (Orcinus orca, n = 14 individuals) from three locations (California, Florida, and Texas, USA), from 1994 to 2020. Potential physiological effects of PFAS were also explored by measuring different biomarkers (cortisol, corticosterone, aldosterone, TBARS, and hydrogen peroxide) while accounting for individual age, sex, and reproductive stage. All PFAS were detected in at least one of the individuals, considering both species. ΣPFAS reached 496 ng mL-1 in bottlenose dolphins and 230 ng mL-1 in killer whales. In both species, the PFAS with higher mean concentrations were PFOS (108.0-183.0 ng ml-1) and PFNA (14.40-85.50 ng ml-1), which are long-chain compounds. Newborn individuals of both species were also exposed to PFAS, indicating transference via placenta and lactation. Linear mixed model analyses indicated significant correlations between aldosterone, month, year, location, and status; and between hydrogen peroxide, month, year, age, status, ΣPFAS, and Σ short-chain PFAS in killer whales suggesting seasonal variations related to the animal's physiological state (e.g., reproductive cycles, stress responses, weaning events) and increased reactive oxygen species formation due to PFAS exposure. Given our results, other contaminant classes should be investigated in cetaceans as they might have additive and synergistic detrimental effects on these individuals. This study lays the foundation to guide future researchers and highlights the importance of such assessments for animal welfare, and species conservation. Our results may inform management decisions regarding regulations of contaminant thresholds in delphinids.

Association Between Prenatal Exposure to Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances From Electronic Waste Disassembly Areas and Steroid Hormones in Human Milk Samples

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are long-lasting environmental contaminants that are released into the environment during the e-waste disassembly process, pose a threat to human health. Human milk is a complex and dynamic mixture of endogenous and exogenous substances, including steroid hormones and PFAS. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the association between PFAS and steroid hormones in human milk from women living close to an e-waste disassembly area. In 2021, we collected milk samples from 150 mothers within 4 weeks of delivery and analyzed them via liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to determine the levels of 21 perfluorinated compounds and five steroid hormones (estrone, estriol, testosterone, progesterone, and androstenedione [A-dione]). We also performed multiple linear regression analysis to clarify the association between maternal PFAS exposure and steroid hormone concentrations. Our results indicated that PFOA and PFOS were positively associated with estrone (β, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.08-0.39) and A-dione (β, 0.186; 95% CI, 0.016-0.357) concentrations in human milk, respectively. Further, the average estimated daily intake of PFOA and PFOS were 36.5 ng/kg bw/day (range, 0.52-291.7 ng/kg bw/day) and 5.21 ng/kg bw/day (range, 0.26-32.3 ng/kg bw/day), respectively. Of concern, the PFAS intake of breastfeeding infants in the study area was higher than the recommended threshold. These findings suggested that prenatal exposure to PFAS from the e-waste disassembly process can influence steroid hormones levels in human milk. Increased efforts to mitigate mother and infant exposure to environmental pollutants are also required.

Impact of antenatal exposure to a mixture of persistent organic pollutants on intellectual development

OBJECTIVE

Strong experimental evidence exists that several endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have neurobehavioral toxicity. However, evidence of associations between prenatal exposure and child's cognitive development is inconsistent. Moreover, toxicants are generally analyzed one by one without considering aggregate effects. We examined here the impact of a prenatal exposure to a mixture of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) on intellectual abilities in preschool children, and compared their effects to those described in the literature.

METHODS

Sixty-two children were included in a longitudinal cohort. Four organochlorine pesticides, four polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and seven perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) were measured in cord blood. Intellectual abilities were assessed at 6 years of age using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence 4th ed. (WPPSI-IV). We examined the associations between a mixture of POPs and cognitive performances using principal components approach (PCA) and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression taking sex difference into account.

RESULTS

No negative correlation was found when analyses were performed on boys and girls together. In sex-stratified analyses, lower scores in full scale intelligence quotient (FSIQ) and fluid reasoning index (FRI) were observed in boys most exposed to a mixture of POPs. Increase of the WQS index was also associated with lower verbal comprehension index (VCI) scores in girls only. No other negative correlation was found using both WQS and PCA models.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests deleterious associations between antenatal exposure to a mixture of POPs and sex-specific cognitive level, clarifying some trends described in the literature.

Association between pre- and postnatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals and birth and neurodevelopmental outcomes: an extensive review

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are natural or synthetic chemicals that mimic, block, or interfere with the hormones in the body. The most common and well- studied EDCs are bisphenol A, phthalates, and persistent organic pollutants including polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, other brominated flame retardants, organochlorine pesticides, dioxins, and furans. Starting in embryonic life, humans are constantly exposed to EDCs through air, diet, skin, and water. Fetuses and newborns undergo crucial developmental processes that allow adaptation to the environment throughout life. As developing organisms, they are extremely sensitive to low doses of EDCs. Many EDCs can cross the placental barrier and reach the developing fetal organs. In addition, newborns can be exposed to EDCs through breastfeeding or formula feeding. Pre- and postnatal exposure to EDCs may increase the risk of childhood diseases by disrupting the hormone-mediated processes critical for growth and development during gestation and infancy. This review discusses evidence of the relationship between pre- and postnatal exposure to several EDCs, childbirth, and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Available evidence suggests that pre- and postnatal exposure to certain EDCs causes fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, low birth weight, and neurodevelopmental problems through various mechanisms of action. Given the adverse effects of EDCs on child development, further studies are required to clarify the overall associations.

Prenatal endocrine-disrupting chemicals exposure and impact on offspring neurodevelopment: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Considering that endocrine disruptors have certain effects on fetal growth, we conducted a systematic review of epidemiological literature to elucidate the correlation between exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during pregnancy and the neurodevelopment of offspring.

METHOD

We systematically explored PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases from inception to April 4, 2023. References from pertinent studies were reviewed, and data regarding the link between maternal prenatal EDC exposure and offspring neurological development were compiled. A domain-based approach was used to evaluate studies of neurodevelopmental effects in children ≤3 years old by two reviewers, including cognition, motor, behavior, language, and non-verbal ability.

RESULTS

A comprehensive search yielded 45,373 articles, from which 48 articles, involving 26,005 mother-child pairs, met the criteria and were subsequently included in our analysis. The results revealed that EDC exposure during pregnancy had a significant impact on offspring neurobehavior development, especially in cognition, motor, and language. Our findings indicated adverse associations between prenatal exposure to metals and offspring cognition (before 12 months: β coefficient: -0.28; 95 % CI, -0.50 to -0.06; 1-3 years old: β coefficient: -0.55; 95 % CI: -1.08 to -0.02). Furthermore, metals (β coefficient: -0.71; 95 % CI: -1.23 to -0.19) and phthalates (β coefficient: -0.69; 95 % CI: -1.05 to -0.33) exposure exhibited detrimental effects on motor development from1-3 years old, while poly-fluoroalkyl substances were linked to the disruption of offspring language development (β coefficient: -1.01; 95 % CI: -1.90 to -0.11) within this timeframe. Additionally, exposure to EDCs during pregnancy had a negative impact on cognition development among girls from 12 to 36 months of age (β coefficient: -0.53; 95 % CI: -1.01 to -0.06).

CONCLUSION

Prenatal exposure to EDCs, especially metals, phthalates and, poly-fluoroalkyl substances, was associated with disrupting the development of offspring neurobehavior in the short and long term. Additionally, cognitive development showed gender differences due to prenatal endocrine-disrupting chemicals exposure.

Regrettable Substitutes and the Brain: What Animal Models and Human Studies Tell Us about the Neurodevelopmental Effects of Bisphenol, Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, and Phthalate Replacements

In recent decades, emerging evidence has identified endocrine and neurologic health concerns related to exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including bisphenol A (BPA), certain per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFASs), and phthalates. This has resulted in consumer pressure to remove these chemicals from the market, especially in food-contact materials and personal care products, driving their replacement with structurally or functionally similar substitutes. However, these "new-generation" chemicals may be just as or more harmful than their predecessors and some have not received adequate testing. This review discusses the research on early-life exposures to new-generation bisphenols, PFASs, and phthalates and their links to neurodevelopmental and behavioral alterations in zebrafish, rodents, and humans. As a whole, the evidence suggests that BPA alternatives, especially BPAF, and newer PFASs, such as GenX, can have significant effects on neurodevelopment. The need for further research, especially regarding phthalate replacements and bio-based alternatives, is briefly discussed.

Kidney function decline mediates the adverse effects of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on uric acid levels and hyperuricemia risk

Previous studies indicated per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were related to uric acid and hyperuricemia risk, but evidence for the exposure-response (E-R) curves and combined effect of PFAS mixture is limited. Moreover, the potential mediation effect of kidney function was not assessed. Hence, we conducted a national cross-sectional study involving 13,979 US adults in NHANES 2003-2018 to examine the associations of serum PFAS with uric acid and hyperuricemia risk, and the mediation effects of kidney function. Generalized linear models and E-R curves showed positive associations of individual PFAS with uric acid and hyperuricemia risk, and nearly linear E-R curves indicated no safe threshold for PFAS. Weighted quantile sum regression found positive associations of PFAS mixture with uric acid and hyperuricemia risk, and PFOA was the dominant contributor to the adverse effect of PFAS on uric acid and hyperuricemia risk. Causal mediation analysis indicated significant mediation effects of kidney function decline in the associations of PFAS with uric acid and hyperuricemia risk, with the mediated proportion ranging from 19 % to 57 %. Our findings suggested that PFAS, especially PFOA, may cause increased uric acid and hyperuricemia risk increase even at low levels, and kidney function decline plays a crucial mediation effect.

Prenatal PFAS exposure, gut microbiota dysbiosis, and neurobehavioral development in childhood

Studies on the role of the gut microbiota in the associations between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure and adverse neurodevelopment are limited. Umbilical cord serum and faeces samples were collected from children, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was conducted. Generalized linear models, linear mixed-effects models, multivariate analysis by linear models and microbiome regression-based kernel association tests were used to evaluate the associations among PFAS exposure, the gut microbiota, and neurobehavioural development. Perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS) exposure was associated with increased scores for conduct problems and externalizing problems, as well as altered gut microbiota alpha and beta diversity. PFHxS concentrations were associated with higher relative abundances of Enterococcus spp. but lower relative abundances of several short-chain fatty acid-producing genera (e.g., Ruminococcus gauvreauii group spp.). PFHxS exposure was also associated with increased oxidative phosphorylation. Alpha and beta diversity were found significantly associated with conduct problems and externalizing problems. Ruminococcus gauvreauii group spp. abundance was positively correlated with prosocial behavior scores. Increased alpha diversity played a mediating role in the associations of PFHxS exposure with conduct problems. Our results suggest that the gut microbiota might play an important role in PFAS neurotoxicity, which may have implications for PFAS control.

The association between per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances in serum and thyroid function parameters: A cross-sectional study on teenagers living near a Chinese fluorochemical industrial plant

Thyroid hormones (THs) play an important role in a wide range of crucial biological functions related to growth and development, and thyroid antibodies (TAs) can influence the biosynthesis of THs. Epidemiological studies have indicated that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) could induce thyroid disruption, but studies on teenagers living in areas with high PFAS exposure are limited. This cross-sectional study focused on 836 teenagers (11- 15 years) living near a Chinese fluorochemical industrial plant. Decreased levels of free thyroxine (FT4, ﹤9.6 pmol/L, abnormal rate = 19.0 %) and elevated levels of free triiodothyronine (FT3, ﹥6.15 pmol/L, abnormal rate = 29.8 %) were observed. Correlations of serum PFAS concentrations and TAs/THs were analyzed. Increased PFOA was identified as a risk factor of decreased FT4 by using unadjusted (OR: 11.346; 95 % CI: 6.029, 21.352, p < 0.001) and adjusted (OR: 12.566; 95 % CI: 6.549, 24.115, p < 0.001) logistic regression models. In addition, significantly negative correlations were found between log10 transformed PFOA and FT4 levels using linear (unadjusted: β = -1.543, 95 % CI: -1.937, -1.148, p < 0.001; adjusted: β = -1.534, 95 % CI: -1.930, -1.137, p < 0.001) and BKMR models. For abnormal FT3, a significantly positive association between PFHxS and FT3 levels was observed in a regression model (unadjusted: β = -0.903, 95 % CI: -1.212, -0.595, p < 0.001; adjusted: β = -0.894, 95 % CI: -1.204, -0.583, p < 0.001), and PFHxS was identified as a risk factor (unadjusted: OR: 4.387; 95 % CI: 2.619, 7.346, p < 0.001; adjusted: OR: 4.527; 95 % CI: 2.665, 7.688, p < 0.001). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the above results. This study reported the elevated PFAS exposure and thyroid function of teenagers living near a fluorochemical industrial plant from China.

Prenatal exposure to mixtures of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and organochlorines affects cognition in adolescence independent of postnatal exposure

BACKGROUND

Studies on cognitive and neurodevelopmental outcomes have shown inconsistent results regarding the association with prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) and organochlorines. Assessment of mixture effects of correlated chemical exposures that persist in later life may contribute to the unbiased evaluation and understanding of dose-response associations in real-life exposures.

METHODS

For a subset of the 4th Flemish Environment and Health Study (FLEHS), concentrations of four PFAS and six organochlorines were measured in respectively 99 and 153-160 cord plasma samples and 15 years later in adolescents' peripheral serum by Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). Sustained and selective attention were measured at 14-15 years with the Continuous Performance Test (CPT) and Stroop Test as indicators of potential neurodevelopmental deficits. Quantile g-computation was applied to assess the joint associations between prenatal exposure to separate and combined groups of PFAS and organochlorines and performance in the CPT and Stroop Test at adolescence. Subsequently, individual effects of each chemical compound were analyzed in mixed effects models with two sets of covariates. Analytical data at birth and at the time of cognitive assessment allowed for off-setting postnatal exposure.

RESULTS

In mixtures analysis, a simultaneous one-quantile increase in the natural log-transformed values of PFAS and organochlorines combined was associated with a decrease in the mean reaction time (RT) and the reaction time variability (RTV) in the CPT (β = -15.54, 95% CI:-29.64, -1.45, and β = -7.82, 95% CI: -14.97, -0.67 respectively) and for the mixture of PFAS alone with RT (β = -11.94, 95% CI: -23.29, -0.60). In the single pollutant models, these results were confirmed for the association between perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHxS) with RT (β = -17.95, 95% CI = -33.35, -2.69) and hexachlorobenzene with RTV in the CPT (β = -5.78, 95% CI: -10.39, -0.76). Furthermore, the participants with prenatal exposure above the limit of quantification for perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) had a significantly shorter RT and RTV in the CPT (β = -23.38, 95% CI: -41.55, -5.94, and β = -9.54, 95% CI: -19.75, -0.43, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Higher prenatal exposure to a PFAS mixture and a mixture of PFAS and organochlorines combined was associated with better sustained and selective attention during adolescence. The associations seemed to be driven by PFHxS and were not linked to exposure levels at the time of assessment.

Prenatal and perinatal exposure to Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-contaminated drinking water impacts offspring neurobehavior and development

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent organic pollutants ubiquitous in the environment and humans. In-utero PFAS exposure is associated with numerous adverse health impacts. However, little is known about how prenatal PFAS mixture exposure affects offspring's neurobehavioral function. This study aims to determine the causal relationship between in-utero PFAS mixture exposure and neurobehavioral changes in Sprague-Dawley rat offspring. Dams were exposed via drinking water to the vehicle (control), an environmentally relevant PFAS mixture, or a high-dose PFAS mixture. The environmentally relevant mixture was formulated to resemble measured tap water levels in Pittsboro, NC, USA (10 PFAS compounds; sum PFAS =758.6 ng/L). The high-dose PFAS load was 3.8 mg/L (5000×), within the range of exposures in the experimental literature. Exposure occurred seven days before mating until birth. Following exposure to PFAS-laden water or the vehicle during fetal development, neurobehavioral toxicity was assessed in male and female offspring with a battery of motor, cognitive, and affective function tests as juveniles, adolescents, and adults. Just before weaning, the environmentally relevant exposure group had smaller anogenital distances compared to the vehicle and high-dose groups on day 17, and males in the environmentally relevant exposure group demonstrated lower weights than the high-dose group on day 21 (p < 0.05). Reflex development delays were seen in negative geotaxis acquisition for both exposure groups compared to vehicle-exposed controls (p = 0.009). Our post-weaning behavioral measures of anxiety, depression, and memory were not found to be affected by maternal PFAS exposure. In adolescence (week five) and adulthood (week eight), the high PFAS dose significantly attenuated typical sex differences in locomotor activity. Maternal exposure to an environmentally relevant PFAS mixture produced developmental delays in the domains of pup weight, anogenital distance, and reflex acquisition for rat offspring. The high-dose PFAS exposure significantly decreased typical sex differences in locomotor activity.

Association of prenatal exposure to perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances with childhood neurodevelopment: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although previous studies have shown an association between prenatal exposure to perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, the results have been inconsistent. We summarize studies on the association between prenatal PFAS exposure and neurodevelopment in children in order to better understand the relationship.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a meta-analysis of prenatal PFAS exposure and developmental outcomes associated with intellectual, executive function and behavioral difficulty in children to explore the relationship between prenatal exposure to perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and neurodevelopmental disorders in children.

METHODS

We searched for articles published up to August 3, 2023, included and quantified original studies on PFAS and child Intelligence Quotient (IQ), executive function and behavioral difficulty during pregnancy, and systematically summarized articles that could not be quantified.

CONCLUSION

There is evidence of sex-specific relationship between PFAS exposure and children's PIQ. We found that PFOS [β = -1.56, 95% CI = -2.96, - 0.07; exposure = per 1 ln (ng/ml) increase], PFOA [β = -1.87, 95% CI = -3.29, - 0.46; exposure = per 1 ln (ng/ml) increase], PFHxS [β = -2.02, 95% CI = -3.23, - 0.81; exposure = per 1 ln (ng/ml) increase] decreased performance IQ in boys, but PFOS [β = 1.56, 95% CI = 0.06, 3.06; exposure = per 1 ln (ng/ml) increase] increased performance IQ in girls. PFAS are associated with executive function impairments in children, but not related to behavioral difficulty in children.

Association between prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and neurodevelopment in children: Evidence based on birth cohort

BACKGROUND

Although numerous studies have examined the effect of prenatal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure on neurodevelopment in children, findings have been inconsistent.

OBJECTIVE

To better understand the effects of PFAS exposure during pregnancy on offspring neurodevelopment, we conducted a systematic review of prenatal exposure to different types of PFAS and neurodevelopment in children.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, and EMBASE electronic databases up to March 2023. Only birth cohort studies that report a specific association between PFAS exposure during pregnancy and neurodevelopment were included in this review.

RESULTS

31 birth cohort studies that met the inclusion criteria were qualitatively integrated. Among these, 14 studies investigated the impact of PFAS exposure during pregnancy on cognition, 13 on neurobehavior, and 4 on both cognition and neurobehavior. Additionally, 4 studies explored the influence of PFAS on children's comprehensive development.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal PFAS exposure was associated with poor neurodevelopment in children, including psychomotor development, externalizing behavior, and comprehensive development. However, conclusive evidence regarding its effects on other neurological outcomes remains limited. In addition, sex-specific effects on social behavior and sleep problems were identified.

Association of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances with hepatic steatosis and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease among patients with acute coronary syndrome

Etiology of hepatic steatosis and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) among acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains unclear. Existing studies suggested the potential role of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in comorbidity of hepatic steatosis among ACS patients. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study based on the ACS inpatients to assess the associations of plasma PFAS congeners and mixtures with hepatic steatosis and MAFLD. This study included 546 newly diagnosed ACS patients. Twelve PFAS were quantified using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Hepatic steatosis was defined by hepatic steatosis index (HSI). MAFLD was defined as the combination of hepatic steatosis based on the risk factor calculation with metabolic abnormalities. Generalized linear model was used to examine the associations of PFAS congeners with HSI and MAFLD. Adaptive elastic net (AENET) was further used for PFAS congeners selection. Mixture effects were also assessed with Bayesian kernel machine regression model (BKMR). Congeners analysis observed significant greater percent change of HSI for each doubling in PFOS (1.82%, 95% CI: 0.87%, 2.77%), PFHxS (1.17%, 95% CI: 0.46%, 1.89%) and total PFAS (1.84%, 95% CI: 0.56%, 3.14%). Moreover, each doubling in PFOS (OR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.81), PFHxS (OR=1.31, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.59) and total PFAS (OR=1.43, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.94) was associated with increased risk of MAFLD. In AENET regression, only PFOS presented significant positive associations with HSI. Mixture analysis indicated significant positive associations between PFAS mixtures and HSI. This is the first study to demonstrate associations of PFAS congeners and mixtures with hepatic steatosis and MAFLD among ACS patients, which provides hypothesis into the mechanisms behind comorbidity of hepatic steatosis among ACS patients, as well as tertiary prevention of ACS.

Behavioral outcomes and exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances among children aged 6-13 years: The TEDDY child study

BACKGROUND

Although some studies report that exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during pregnancy and early life stages of a child could adversely impact neurodevelopment, literature shows mixed evidence.

OBJECTIVES

Using an ecological framework for human development, we assessed the association of risk factors for environmental PFAS exposure and childhood PFAS concentrations with behavioral difficulties among school-age children exposed to PFAS from birth, while also controlling for the important influence of the parenting and familial environment.

METHODS

The study participants included 331 school-age children (6-13 years) born in a PFAS-contaminated area in the Veneto Region (Italy). We study the associations between environmental risk factors of maternal PFAS exposure (residential time, consumption of tap water, residence in Red zone A or B), and breastfeeding duration with parent assessments of children's behavioral problems (using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire [SDQ]), adjusting for socio-demographic, parenting and familial variables. The direct relationships between serum blood PFAS concentrations and SDQ scores was evaluated in a subset of children (n = 79), both with single PFAS and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regressions.

RESULTS

Poisson regression models reported positive associations between high consumption of tap water and externalizing SDQ scores (Incidence Rate Ratio [IRR]: 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04-1.32) and total difficulty scores (IRR: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.02-1.26). Childhood perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) were associated with higher internalizing SDQ scores (4th vs. 1st quartile, PFOS IRR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.06-2.25), externalizing scores (4th vs. 1st quartile, PFHxS IRR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.09-2.32), and total difficulty scores (4th vs. 1st quartile, PFOS IRR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.05-1.71; PFHxS IRR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.09-1.90). The WQS regressions confirmed the associations reported by single-PFAS analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed cross-sectional associations of tap water consumption and childhood PFOS, and PFHxS concentrations with greater behavioral difficulties.

Prenatal Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Substances and Cognitive and Neurobehavioral Development in Children at 6 Years of Age

Epidemiological evidence regarding the effects of prenatal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) on neurodevelopment in children is inconclusive. In 449 mother-child pairs from the Shanghai-Minhang Birth Cohort Study, we measured the concentrations of 11 PFASs in maternal plasma samples obtained at 12-16 weeks of gestation. We assessed children's neurodevelopment at 6 years of age by the fourth edition of the Chinese Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children and Child Behavior Checklist for ages 6-18. We evaluated the association between prenatal exposure to PFASs and children's neurodevelopment and the effect modification of maternal dietary factors during pregnancy and the child's sex. We found that prenatal exposure to multiple PFASs was associated with increased scores for attention problems, and the individual effect of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was statistically significant. However, no statistically significant association between PFASs and cognitive development was observed. Additionally, we found the effect modification of maternal nut intake and child's sex. In conclusion, this study suggests that prenatal exposure to PFASs was associated with more attention problems, and maternal nut intake during pregnancy may alter the potential effect of PFASs. However, these findings were exploratory because of multiple testing and the relatively small sample size.