Researchers have found that exposure to “forever chemicals” called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may have a negative impact on the developing male brain. A new study published in the European Journal of Neuroscience has shown that early life exposure to one type of PFAS, perfluorohexanoic acid or PFHxA, can increase anxiety-related behaviors and memory deficits in male mice.
The study, conducted at the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience at the University of Rochester, used a novel method called the mealworm method to expose mice to PFHxA during gestation and lactation. The researchers found that male mice exposed to higher doses of PFHxA showed mild developmental changes, including decreased activity levels, increased anxiety-like behaviors, and memory deficits.
The study’s findings suggest that the male brain may be more vulnerable to environmental insults during neurodevelopment. While females did not show similar behavioral effects, the study’s lead author, Ania Majewska, notes that this finding is reminiscent of many neurodevelopmental disorders that are male-biased.
PFHxA is a shorter-chain PFAS that was previously thought to be safer than longer-chain PFAS. However, its persistence in water and restrictions by the European Union suggest that it may still pose health risks. The study’s authors hope that this research will inform regulations around PFHxA and other short-chain PFAS.
Further studies are needed to fully understand the impacts of PFHxA on the developing brain. Majewska suggests that future research should evaluate the cellular and molecular effects of PFHxA, including cell-type specific effects, in regions associated with motor, emotional/fear, and memory domains.
Source: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/publications/neuroscience/researchers-find-forever-chemicals-impact-the-developing-male-brain