Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) are persistent in the environment and bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, potentially causing adverse health effects at all stages of life. Studies from human pregnancy have shown that exposure to these contaminants are associated with placental dysfunction and fetal growth restriction; however, studies in humans are confounded by genetic and environmental factors. Here, we synthesize the available results from mouse models of pregnancy to show the causal effects of prenatal exposure to PFOA and PFOS on placental and fetal development and on neurocognitive function and metabolic disorders in offspring. We also propose gaps in the present knowledge and provide suggestions for future research studies.

Summary Sentence

Using mouse models of pregnancy, maternal exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances has been shown to have significant impact on placental development, fetal growth, neurocognitive function, and risk for disease in both mother and offspring.