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PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals used in various consumer and industrial products, including non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing and food packaging.

Known as “forever chemicals,” they are used for their durability and resistance to heat, water, and grease. However, these same properties make PFAS an environmental pollutant. Once released into the environment, they collect in soil, water and even the human body, where they can remain for years. Nearly all individuals have levels of PFAS in their blood due to their widespread use.

Scientists have linked PFAS exposure to an increased risk of a variety of health issues, including certain cancers and cardiovascular disease. Attention has turned to their potential effects on kidney health and gut microbiota. The gut microbiome plays a critical role in regulating immune responses and maintaining overall health. Disruption of the microbiome has been implicated in numerous diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD).

A recent study by Hampson et al. from the Keck School of Medicine of USC explores how PFAS interact with the gut microbiome and metabolites to influence kidney function. The research involved 78 young adults aged 17 to 22 from Southern California. Researchers measured PFAS exposure, gut microbiome composition, metabolite levels at baseline and kidney function four years later.

They observed that a one standard deviation increase in PFAS burden score correlated with a 2.4% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a critical marker of kidney health. In addition, PFAS exposure was linked to lower levels of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae, and an increase in pro-inflammatory metabolites like succinate and dodecanoic acid—both associated with kidney damage. The gut microbiome appeared to mediate up to 50% of the effects of PFAS exposure on kidney function, highlighting its role in this process.

The study also revealed disruptions in metabolic pathways tied to inflammation and oxidative stress. Short-chain fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties, were diminished in individuals with higher PFAS exposure. At the same time, harmful metabolites and a reduction in protective gut bacteria were noted, creating an environment conducive to kidney damage.

While these findings are promising, the study’s limitations include a relatively small sample size and a demographically narrow participant pool, primarily Hispanic young adults from Southern California. Future research with larger, more diverse cohorts is needed to confirm these findings and determine causality.

This research underscores the importance of addressing environmental pollutants like PFAS in public health strategies. Although PFAS exposure is nearly ubiquitous, there are steps individuals can take to minimize their risk. Avoiding products labeled as stain-resistant or non-stick limits exposure. Supporting gut health with a fiber-rich diet and fermented foods can bolster the microbiome’s resilience, providing another layer of protection against environmental toxins.

As the science evolves, understanding the link between PFAS, gut health, and systemic diseases will be crucial.