AgBioResearch

Michigan State University researchers are looking to answer questions surrounding the little-known per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances known as PFAS. Contamination numbers in Michigan outpace those of any other state, and MSU is on the front lines of solving the growing problem. MSU scientists are working on building PFAS knowledge and finding ways to minimize the environmental and health impacts of these “forever-chemicals.” With further funding and research, MSU hopes to become a clearinghouse for PFAS research and the leading source of PFAS information in the nation.

• MSU Extension has a PFAS contamination response website (canr.msu.edu/pfas), and other researchers are examining how humans are exposed to PFAS and how that exposure can be limited.
• MSU researchers want to examine just how detrimental PFAS can be to human health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, human ingestion of PFAS through drinking water or food can cause reproductive, developmental, liver, kidney and immunological effects. Increased cholesterol levels among exposed populations have been the most consistent findings in studies.