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The pervasive presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment and their persistent nature raise significant concerns regarding their impact on human health. This review delves into the obesogenic potential of PFAS, shedding light on their mechanisms of action, epidemiological correlations with obesity and metabolic disorders, and the challenges faced in regulatory frameworks. PFAS, characterized by their carbon-fluorine chains, are ubiquitous in various consumer products, leading to widespread exposure through ingestion of contaminated food and water. Emerging evidence suggests that PFAS may act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals, interfering with lipid metabolism and hormone functions related to obesity. We examine in vitro, in vivo, human, and in silico studies that explore the interaction of PFAS with PPARs and other molecular targets, influencing adipogenesis and lipid homeostasis. Furthermore, the review highlights epidemiological studies investigating the association between maternal PFAS exposure and the risk of obesity in offspring, presenting mixed and inconclusive findings that underscore the complexity of PFAS effects on human health. Presently, there are major challenges in studying PFAS toxicity, including their chemical diversity and the limitations of current regulatory guidelines, potential remediation, and detoxification. This review emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach, combining advanced analytical methods, in silico models, and comprehensive epidemiological studies, to unravel the obesogenic effects of PFAS and inform effective public health strategies.
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Obesity‐ and diet‐induced plasticity in systems that control eating and energy balance
Abstract In April 2023, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), in partnership with the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the National Institute on Aging, and the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research, hosted a 2‐day online workshop to discuss neural plasticity in energy homeostasis and obesity. The goal was to provide a broad view of current knowledge while identifying research questions and challenges regarding neural systems that control food intake and energy balance. This review includes highlights from the meeting and is intended both to introduce unfamiliar audiences with concepts central to energy homeostasis, feeding, and obesity and to highlight up‐and‐coming research in these areas that may be of special interest to those with a background in these fields. The overarching theme of this review addresses plasticity within the central and peripheral nervous systems that regulates and influences eating, emphasizing distinctions between healthy and disease states. This is by no means a comprehensive review because this is a broad and rapidly developing area. However, we have pointed out relevant reviews and primary articles throughout, as well as gaps in current understanding and opportunities for developments in the field.
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- PAR ID:
- 10523892
- Publisher / Repository:
- Obesity
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Obesity
- ISSN:
- 1930-7381
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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- Free Publicly Accessible Full Text
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Accepted Manuscript1.0
- Journal Article:
- https://doi.org/10.1002/oby.24060
