Elevated Maternal Testosterone Levels Alter PFOA Elimination and Tissue Distribution in Pregnant Rats.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Reproductive Toxicology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent synthetic chemical with known human health risks.
• PFOA bioaccumulation is notably higher in pregnant women with preeclampsia.
• Preeclampsia is associated with elevated plasma testosterone levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if hyperandrogenic conditions during pregnancy impair PFOA elimination.
• To determine the impact of elevated testosterone on PFOA body burden and tissue distribution in pregnant rats.

Main Methods:

• Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were administered testosterone propionate to mimic preeclampsia hormonal levels.
• [14C]-PFOA was administered intravenously on gestational day 16.
• Radioactivity was measured in maternal blood, urine, feces, and tissues to assess PFOA elimination and distribution.

Main Results:

• Elevated testosterone significantly reduced urinary PFOA excretion by 12% compared to controls.
• Total PFOA elimination (urine + feces) was reduced in the testosterone-treated group.
• Tissue concentrations of PFOA were 12% higher in pregnant rats with elevated testosterone levels.
• Renal transporter gene expression (Oat2, Oat3, Oatp1, Oat-k) was altered in response to elevated testosterone.

Conclusions:

• Elevated maternal testosterone levels hinder PFOA urinary elimination during pregnancy.
• Altered renal transporter expression may contribute to decreased PFOA excretion.
• These findings suggest a mechanism for increased PFOA body burden in hyperandrogenic pregnancies.