The effects of PFASs on neural differentiation

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21K17266
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 58020:Hygiene and public health-related: including laboratory approach
• Research Institution: Gunma University
• Principal Investigator: Fujiwara Yuki 群馬大学, 大学院医学系研究科, 助教 (20881220)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: PFAS / neuron / 甲状腺ホルモン / 血液脳関門

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are used in a wide range of applications, such as surfactants, due to their thermal and chemical stability. One type of these organic fluorine compounds, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), is known for its structural stability, high bioaccumulation potential, and various toxicities. This study focused on the neurodevelopmental toxicity of PFOS, specifically examining its impact on neurodevelopment mediated by thyroid hormones and its effects on the blood-brain barrier. The results indicated that PFOS inhibits dendritic formation through effects mediated by the thyroid hormone converting enzyme, deiodinase 2 (D2). Additionally, while high-dose exposure to PFOS may impact the blood-brain barrier, its transport into the brain might be influenced by specific transporters.

Free Research Field

神経発達毒性学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

その化学的な安定性から蓄積性が高く様々な影響が示唆されるPFASの一種であるPFOSは様々な毒性影響を持つことが示唆されており、その一つが神経発達毒性である。しかし、in vivoおよび疫学研究から神経発達毒性への影響が示唆されていたがそのメカニズムは明らかとなっていない。本研究では、甲状腺ホルモン変換酵素を介した毒性影響により神経発達に重要である樹状突起形成を阻害する可能性を報告した。この報告はPFOS曝露による甲状腺ホルモン系を介した毒性影響メカニズムの一端に迫る重要な報告である。