Your Gut Might Be the Key to Beating Toxic Chemicals!

In a groundbreaking study from the University of Cambridge, researchers have uncovered that certain gut microbes can absorb and excrete toxic PFAS—the notorious 'forever chemicals.' These compounds are known for their persistence in the environment and their link to serious health risks.

Good News for Your Health!

This discovery presents a promising alternative to the current methods of detoxifying the body from PFAS, which mostly involve invasive procedures or drugs with harsh side effects. This innovative research could pave the way for probiotic supplements that enhance the beneficial gut bacteria, potentially reducing PFAS levels naturally.

Your Gut Bacteria to the Rescue!

These specific microbes have been shown to eliminate up to 75% of certain PFAS compounds in the lab mice. Anna Lindell, a doctoral student involved in the study, explained, "If we can develop probiotics for humans that effectively aid in removing PFAS, it would provide a gentler, safer solution compared to existing treatments."

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?

PFAS, a group of around 15,000 synthetic chemicals, are commonly used to create stain, grease, and water-resistant products. They are associated with a myriad of health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and immunodeficiencies. Dubbed 'forever chemicals' due to their inability to break down in the environment, even low levels pose a significant health risk.

A Journey Through Your Microbiome!

In this unique study, researchers did not initially aim to investigate PFAS elimination. Instead, they examined a range of 42 prevalent food contaminants. Using a selection of nine bacterial species to mimic a human microbiome in mice, these microbes absorbed PFAS, which were subsequently expelled with feces.

Innovative Mechanisms at Play!

The bacteria appear to absorb PFAS and utilize a pumping mechanism to push these harmful toxins out of their cells, aiding in their excretion. While the full process remains a mystery, it is suspected that these microbes possess mechanisms to expel various other contaminants as well.

Not All PFAS Are Created Equal!

The study particularly focused on 'long-chain' PFAS, which are more hazardous due to their prolonged presence in the body. In stark contrast, 'short-chain' PFAS are more easily processed out via urine due to their water-solubility. The microbes efficiently dealt with dangerous long-chain variants like PFOA and PFNA, achieving impressive elimination rates.

A New Company Aims to Tackle PFAS!

Following their promising results, Lindell and her colleagues have launched Cambiotics, a company dedicated to developing probiotics aimed at combatting PFAS exposure. However, they emphasize that while their findings are promising, probiotics alone will not resolve the overarching PFAS crisis. Lindell warns against using this research as an excuse to overlook comprehensive approaches to tackle environmental PFAS pollution.