PFOS Induces Lipometabolism Change, Immune Defense, and Endocrine Disorders in Black-Spotted Frogs: Application of Transcriptome Profiling

Amphibian population declines are closely linked to increasingly serious environmental pollution. Field investigations revealed that perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) distribution was detected in 100% of amphibians. In the present study, global transcriptome sequencing was determined on black-spotted frogs to quantify transcript expression levels and the development of an adverse outcome pathway for PFOS. A total of 1441 differentially expressed genes were identified in the PFOS exposure for 21 d, with 645 being downregulated and 796 upregulated. The gene functions and pathways for lipid metabolism, endocrine system, and immune defense were enriched. An adverse outcome pathway has been proposed, including PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors) as the molecular initiating events; followed by changes in lipid metabolism, endocrine system, and immune defense; with an end result of liver damage or even population decline. This research provides molecular insight into the toxicity of PFOS. More research about differentially expressed genes is warranted to further provide the underlying mechanism that is altered as a result of PFOS toxicity in organisms.

Automated summary

Two studies have shown that amphibian population declines are closely related to environmental pollution. One study found that perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) was detected in 100% of amphibians and identified differentially expressed genes related to PFOS toxicity through transcriptome sequencing. After 21 days of PFOS exposure, 1441 genes showed differential expression, with 645 downregulated and 796 upregulated. These genes are involved in lipid metabolism, endocrine system, immune defense, and other functions and pathways. The toxicity of PFOS includes liver damage and even population decline. This research provides important molecular insights into the toxicity of PFOS.