Non-serum PFAS biomarkers and human reproductive/perinatal outcomes: A systematic review


Arslan Z., SANAJOU .

Reproductive Toxicology, cilt.142, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
  • Cilt numarası: 142
  • Basım Tarihi: 2026
  • Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2026.109232
  • Dergi Adı: Reproductive Toxicology
  • Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, Chimica, EMBASE, Environment Index, MEDLINE
  • Anahtar Kelimeler: Follicular fluid, Human biomonitoring, Human milk, Non-serum matrices, PFAS, Placenta, Reproductive and perinatal outcomes
  • Lokman Hekim Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Most epidemiologic evidence linking per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to reproductive outcomes relies on serum biomarkers, which may not accurately reflect exposure in target reproductive compartments. We systematically reviewed literature (1 Jan 2020 – 31 Dec 2025) investigating PFAS in non-serum matrices (follicular fluid, placenta, semen, human milk, urine, and hair). Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we identified 58 eligible studies (19 primary associations; 39 biomonitoring/mechanistic). Study quality was assessed via the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, with most association studies rated as 'Good.' While findings were heterogeneous across matrix–outcome domains, consistent signals emerged for follicular-fluid PFAS and impaired embryo quality, and placental PFAS and sex-dimorphic fetal growth restriction. Toxicokinetic data revealed high transfer efficiencies for PFOA into follicular fluid (0.72–0.94) but significant retention of PFOS in placental tissue. These findings suggest that non-serum biomarkers provide a time-resolved, compartment-specific perspective that offers greater etiological resolution than systemic serum measurements. Future research should adopt this "matrix-aware" framework to better characterize localized reproductive risks and improve environmental risk assessments.