[Press Release] USC study finds link between PFAS, kidney function and gut health

By Zara Abrams | Keck School of Medicine of USC | October 17, 2024

Read the full article by Zara Abrams (Keck School of Medicine of USC)

"New research has revealed that the connection between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, and kidney damage may be tied to dysregulation of the gut microbiome, which is made up of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in the digestive tract.

PFAS are manufactured chemicals used in a wide range of products, including everything from furniture to food packaging. They are often called “forever chemicals” because once they accumulate in the environment or the human body, they take a very long time to break down.

The group of chemicals is known to increase risk for a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and chronic kidney disease, but the biological mechanisms behind that risk are poorly understood."