Date of Award

January 2025

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Department

School of Public Health

First Advisor

Caroline Johnson

Abstract

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), termed “forever chemicals” for their persistence in the environment, are under investigation for their carcinogenic effects, but their specific impacts on colorectal cancer (CRC) progression remain largely unexplored. This study uses untargeted metabolomics to examine the effects of PFAS exposure on cells of CRC stages 2, 3, and 4, and identify state-specific alterations in important metabolic pathways. Later stage cells exhibit a greater response than early stage cells, suggesting increased susceptibility to PFAS effects in cells of more advanced cancer. PFOS had a greater effect on the metabolism of the cell lines compared to PFOA, evidenced by the increased number of metabolites that were altered with treatment. The changes observed after both treatments were characterized most by disruption in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, reflecting a change in energy production, as well as potential effects of oxidative stress and DNA synthesis. These findings highlight the ability for PFAS to impact the metabolism of CRC cells in a stage-dependent manner and underscore the need for additional research into the mechanisms behind these effects and the implications on CRC patient health.

Comments

This is an Open Access Thesis.

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