Repositori URV

Identifier: TDX:743

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX743

Authors:
Fuentes de Frutos, Silvia

Abstract:
Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a persistent and bioaccumulative pollutant that can be released from several fluorochemicals by. The surfactant properties of this chemical have made it desirable for extensive use in industrial and commercial applications including surface protection, paper and food- package treatment, and lubricants. A number of recent studies have shown the presence of PFOS in blood samples from occupationally and non-occupationally exposed humans. Studies focused on the developmental effects of oral PFOS during pregnancy have shown dose-dependent adverse effects in rodents. Maternal and developmental toxicity were observed as reductions in maternal weight gain, reductions in fetal body weight, and delays in developmental landmarks and neuromotor maturation. Prenatal and postnatal mortality have been also reported. The toxicological profile of PFOS in adult rodents shows a significant weight loss accompanied by hepatotoxicity and reduced levels of serum cholesterol and triglycerides. However, the potential toxicity of PFOS has not been completely characterized yet. On the other hand, it has been established that gestational stress during a critical period of the embryonic development may modify gestational parameters and produce longlasting alterations in the behavior of the offspring. The presence and persistence of such adverse effects depend on factors such as the exact timing of exposure to stress of the dam and the type and intensity of stressor.It has been reported that some chemicals can alter the effects of maternal stress and, conversely, maternal stress can modify the potential adverse effects of some contaminants, in particular when they have been administered at high doses. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether matern