Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) Induces Redox Status Disruption in Swine Granulosa Cells

Perfluoroctanoid acid (PFOA) is employed in the production and processing of several plastic materials, mainly during the production of waterproof fabrics or non-stick cookware. PFOA is identified as a "Substance of Very High Concern", as it is classified as a "PBT" (Persistent, Bioac-cumulative and Toxic substance) because of its persistence in the environment and its potential accumulation in organisms. Thus, safe levels of exposure cannot be established and PFOA emis-sions should be minimized. PFOA has been recently linked to several health concerns in humans. In particular, a disruptive effect on redox status homeostasis has been documented, with a po-tential impairment of normal reproductive function which requires an adequate oxidative balance. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of PFOA (2, 20 and 200 ng/mL) on ovarian granulosa cells, a model of reproductive cells. The obtained results revealed that PFOA stimulated cell viability (P <0.05). Regarding the effects on free radical production, both O2-, NO and H2O2 were significantly inhibited (P <0.05) while the non-enzymatic antioxidant power was not significantly modified. Collectively, present results deserve attention since free radical mol-ecules play a crucial role in ovarian follicle development leading to a successful ovulation