Investigation of the pancreatic toxicological effects of oral ingestion of perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS) in Sprague-Dawley rats

PFBS (perfluorobutanesulfonic acid) are surfactants in several household products, including drinking water. Exposure to drinking water contaminated with Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAs) has been associated with diabetes, hyperglycemia, and/or insulin resistance. The immune system is particularly vulnerable to toxicant exposures, with certain environmental chemicals, such as PFAS, potentially causing immunotoxicity. This study aims to assess PFBS exposure and inflammatory-related effects in the pancreas. Three groups of male Sprague Dawley rats ingested 0 ppm, 50 ppm and 100 ppm of PFBS-diet for ten weeks to achieve study goals. Histopathological analysis showed no significant changes in treated rat pancreases; however, increased weight gain was observed, indicating possible adipogenic effects of PFBS. Treated rats exhibited lower serum glucose levels and higher insulin concentrations, suggesting improved glucose regulation and increased insulin production due to PFBS exposure. PFBS-exposed rats demonstrated reduced serum lipase activity, a marker of pancreatic function. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulated insulin-related genes (Ins1 and Ins2), inflammatory genes (IL6 and TNFα), and pancreatitis-associated genes (CTRC and SPINK1) in treated groups. This study suggests that PFBS exposure could influence glucose regulation, insulin production, and pancreatic inflammation. Further research is essential to decipher the precise mechanisms and clinical implications of PFBS exposure.