| In a study published in the June 2007 issue of the journal Toxicological Sciences, authors investigated the role of skin exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a known immunosuppressant, on the response to ovalbumin (OVA) (an allergen). PFOA has had widespread use as a carpet and fabric protectant and is also commonly used to make non-stick surfaces. The authors compared three major immune responses in mice subjected to an allergen alone (ovalbumin), the environmental chemical PFOA alone, and the two together. They measured antibody response (immunoglobulin E or IgE) levels, airway hypersensitivity response, and lung and immune system tissue structure. Results showed that mice exposed to PFOA through the skin mount a stronger than normal allergic response to the foreign allergen (ovalbumin). Both total and antigen-specific IgE levels were increased in ovalbumin-challenged animals exposed to PFOA compared to controls. However, a more severe allergic response was noted in animals exposed to both PFOA and ovalbumin. These results suggest that PFOA exposure may create a stronger than normal allergic response to environmental allergens. To view the abstract for this study visit http://toxsci.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/97/2/375. For a synopsis of the study visit Environmental Health News at http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/newscience/2007/2007-0529fairleyetal.html. |
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