Proteomic insights from extracellular vesicles into the molecular mechanisms of health effects induced by Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) can induce a range of adverse health effects, with the precise molecular mechanisms remaining elusive. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have demonstrated their potential to elucidate unknown molecular mechanisms. Building upon the close alignment of their biological functions with the observed health effects of PFASs, this study innovatively focuses on proteomic insights from EVs into the molecular mechanisms underlying the systemic health effects of PFASs. Through rat exposure experiments and proteomics technology, it not only demonstrated the occurrence of PFASs in EVs but also revealed the alterations in the serum EVs and the expression of their protein cargos following mixed exposure to PFASs, leading to changes in related pathways. These changes encompass various biological processes, including proteasome activity, immune response, cytoskeletal organization, oxidative stress, cell signaling, and nervous system function. Particularly noteworthy is the uncovering of the activation of the proteasome pathway, highlighting significant key contributing proteins. These novel findings provide a new perspective for exploring the molecular mechanism underlying the systemic health effects of PFASs and offer reliable screening for potential biomarkers. Additionally, comparisons with serum confirmed the potential of serum EVs as biological responders and measurable endpoints for evaluating PFASs-induced toxicity.