Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) disrupt gut microbiome composition and metabolism in metabolic syndrome: Evidence from a host-free in vitro colonic model.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
In vitro bench research using a host-free colonic model (CEBM Level 5).
PubMed 41038555 · doi:10.1016/j.envpol.2025.127189
What was done
The authors investigated the direct effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on the gut microbiome in the context of metabolic syndrome using a host-free, three-stage, automated computer-controlled in vitro Human Colonic Model (HCM). The system was treated with PFAS at concentrations of 100 ng/mL and 1000 ng/mL. Microbial community structure was measured with microbiome profiling, and metabolic alterations were evaluated using targeted and untargeted metabolomics.
What was found
The abstract reports directional findings without numerical values, effect sizes, or confidence intervals. PFAS exposure significantly altered microbial community structure, specifically noting changes in the genera Morganella and Bilophila. Metabolomic analysis demonstrated an increase in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production at 1000 ng/mL, as well as significant decreases in acetophenone and taurocholic acid at both 100 ng/mL and 1000 ng/mL.
Why it matters
This study provides mechanistic evidence that PFAS can directly disrupt human gut microbiota composition and metabolic activity independently of host cellular interactions.
Limits
The study is entirely in vitro, lacking host mucosal, immune, hepatic, and systemic interactions. The abstract does not specify the exact PFAS congeners tested, donor characteristics, replicate numbers, or numerical effect sizes and variance.
Cited by
- supports PFAS forever chemicals are linked to health issues including hormone disruption, gut microbiome disruption, and fertility problems.