An acronym for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, a large class of synthetic chemicals characterized by a carbon-fluorine bond, which confers unique properties like oil and water resistance, leading to their widespread use in consumer and industrial products. These chemicals are highly persistent in the environment and the human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals,” and they are clinically recognized as potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that can interfere with hormonal signaling. Their presence is a growing concern in environmental health.
Origin
The term and the classification of these compounds emerged from industrial chemistry in the mid-20th century, driven by the development of materials like Teflon. The health and environmental implications became a major focus in toxicology and public health only later, as widespread environmental contamination and bioaccumulation were documented. The acronym is a standardized chemical classification.
Mechanism
PFAS can interfere with the endocrine system through several mechanisms, including binding to and activating or antagonizing nuclear receptors, such as the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs), which regulate metabolism and lipid homeostasis. They can also disrupt thyroid hormone signaling by competing with thyroxine for binding to transport proteins like transthyretin. This interference disrupts the normal homeostatic feedback loops, potentially leading to alterations in lipid metabolism, immune function, and thyroid health.
Regulatory frameworks address dietary endocrine disruptors in children's food through varied approaches, aiming to protect developing systems from chemical interference.
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