In a Duke lab, thousands of microscopic worms are helping scientists investigate the health risks of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals.” These synthetic compounds, used since the 1940s in products like nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging, are nearly indestructible due to their strong carbon-fluorine bonds. As a result, PFAS persist in the environment and have contaminated drinking water, farmland, and even human blood. The Duke research team is using the transparent C. elegans worm to study how different PFAS affect growth and development. Their recent study exposed worms to 13 types of PFAS, revealing that all stunted growth. With over 14,000 PFAS variants, Duke’s worm-based research could be key to identifying the most harmful compounds and protecting vulnerable populations. READ MORE.
