A chemical once seen as a safer replacement for older “forever chemicals” may still pose a risk — especially to developing male brains.
New research from the University of Rochester shows that male mice exposed early in life to PFHxA — a short-chain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance) — later showed signs of increased anxiety and trouble with memory. Females exposed in the same way showed no significant behavioral changes. The findings were published in the European Journal of Neuroscience.
“Although these effects were mild, finding behavioral effects only in males was reminiscent of the many neurodevelopmental disorders that are male-biased,” said Ania Majewska, PhD, professor of Neuroscience.
Research has shown that males are more frequently diagnosed with conditions like autism and ADHD, which makes findings like these especially noteworthy.
“This finding suggests that the male brain might be more vulnerable to environmental insults during neurodevelopment,” Majewska added.
PFHxA is used in stain-resistant, nonstick and water-repellent products and has been considered a less harmful alternative to longer-chain PFAS, which are being phased out globally. But the new study suggests even short-chain PFAS may not be risk-free.
Researchers exposed pregnant and nursing mice to PFHxA through a food treat. Their male offspring later showed decreased activity, more anxiety-like behaviors and memory issues — effects that persisted into adulthood.
“Finding that developmental exposure to PFHxA has long-term behavioral consequences in a mammalian model is concerning when considering short-chain PFAS are thought to be safer alternatives,” said Elizabeth Plunk, PhD, the study’s lead author. “Understanding the impacts of PFHxA on the developing brain is critical when proposing regulations around this chemical.”
“This work points to the need for more research in short-chain PFAS,” Majewska added. “To our knowledge, PFHxA has not been evaluated for developmental neurobehavioral toxicity in a rodent model.”
PFHxA has already been restricted by the European Union. In the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency recently introduced national drinking water standards for several PFAS chemicals. These man-made compounds have been found in food, water and household items — and have been linked to a range of health concerns, from kidney cancer to developmental issues in infants.
The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health and supported by the University of Rochester’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center and Environmental Health Sciences Center.