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Behavioral effects of chronic PFHxA exposure on spatial memory function
Dong Hun Lee1, BaDa Cho1, Jieun Seo2
1Laboratory of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea; Institute for Future Earth, Pusan National University, Busan, Republic of Korea.
Toxicology
|August 10, 2026
Summary
Short-chain perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) exposure during development impaired spatial memory in mice. This highlights potential neurodevelopmental risks associated with this common PFAS alternative.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental contaminants.
- Short-chain PFAS like perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) are replacing long-chain alternatives due to lower bioaccumulation.
- Neurodevelopmental effects of short-chain PFAS are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term behavioral and neurobiological effects of chronic PFHxA exposure during development.
- To assess cognitive function, motor skills, and social behaviors following developmental PFHxA exposure.
Main Methods:
- Chronic PFHxA exposure in mice from the neurodevelopmental period throughout their lifespan.
- Behavioral assessments including novel object recognition and object location tests.
- Evaluation of long-term memory, motor function, and social behaviors.
Main Results:
- PFHxA exposure selectively impaired spatial memory and recognition.
- Mice exposed to PFHxA showed deficits in distinguishing novel from familiar objects or locations.
- No significant effects were observed on long-term memory, motor function, or social behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Chronic developmental exposure to PFHxA can lead to subtle cognitive alterations, specifically in spatial memory.
- PFHxA may pose a neurodevelopmental hazard, necessitating further investigation.
- Findings underscore the importance of evaluating the safety of short-chain PFAS alternatives.