Forever Chemicals, Lasting Effects: Prenatal PFAS Exposure Shapes Baby Immunity
By: University of Rochester Medical Center
July 23, 2025
New research from the University of Rochester Medical Center has found that even small amounts of PFAS can cross the placenta and breast milk, altering infants’ developing immune systems. By tracking 200 healthy mother–baby pairs, researchers discovered that higher prenatal PFAS exposure correlated with significant changes in key immune cells by 12 months of age. Specifically, babies exposed to more PFAS in utero had fewer T follicular helper (Tfh) cells, which are essential for producing effective antibodies, and increased levels of Th2, Th1, and regulatory T cells, which can be linked to allergies, autoimmune disorders, or weakened immune responses when unbalanced.
These immune cell shifts offer insight into previous findings that children with higher PFAS exposure have weaker responses to vaccines such as those for measles and tetanus. A deficiency in Tfh cells may hinder the body’s ability to develop strong, long-term immunity, while an overabundance of other T cell types could raise the risk of allergies or autoimmune diseases like juvenile arthritis or type 1 diabetes. According to lead researcher Kristin Scheible, this is the first study to pinpoint changes in specific immune cells during the early stages of immune system development due to PFAS exposure.
While Rochester’s water meets current safety guidelines, PFAS remains prevalent in everyday consumer items such as nonstick cookware, food wrappers, and personal care products. Despite relatively low levels of PFAS in participants, the study observed notable immune system changes, suggesting that even minimal exposure can be harmful during critical developmental windows. Researchers recommend using water filters, avoiding damaged nonstick pans, and switching to safer food storage options like glass or ceramic to reduce household exposure during pregnancy and early childhood.
The research team plans further studies to assess whether these early immune imbalances persist as children age and if they lead to more frequent or severe infections, allergies, or autoimmune conditions. Future work will also explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of PFAS-induced immune disruption and include direct measurement of PFAS levels in infants. This study underscores the urgent need for both regulatory action and personal precautions to limit PFAS exposure during vulnerable developmental stages.
For more insight, see the original article and the published research.
