Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances alter innate immune function: evidence and data gaps.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Immunology

Background:

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are prevalent, persistent environmental contaminants due to their widespread use in industrial processes and consumer products.
• Existing reviews primarily focus on the adaptive immune system's response to PFASs, often overlooking impacts on innate immunity.
• The persistence and ubiquity of PFASs necessitate a comprehensive understanding of their toxicological effects on all immune system components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current literature on the effects of PFASs on innate immunity in humans, experimental models, and wildlife.
• To identify and discuss known mechanisms by which PFASs modulate innate immune function.
• To highlight research gaps and provide recommendations for future studies on PFASs and immune health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on PFASs and innate immunity.
• Inclusion of data from human studies, experimental animal models, and wildlife exposure assessments.
• Analysis of reported mechanisms of PFASs' immunomodulatory effects.

Main Results:

• Data on PFASs' effects on innate immunity are often equivocal, indicating complex interactions.
• PFAS exposure has been shown to perturb the innate immune system in various species.
• Mechanisms include disruption of cellular signaling pathways, metabolic processes, and tissue-level effects.

Conclusions:

• The innate immune system is susceptible to perturbation by PFAS exposure.
• Further research is needed to elucidate common mechanisms and pathways of PFAS-induced innate immune toxicity.
• Findings underscore the importance of considering innate immunity in PFAS risk assessment and management strategies for environmental and organismal health.