New Study: Common PFAS Chemicals Alter Gene Activity, Linked to Multiple Diseases
PFAS Chemicals Found to Change Genes -Implications for Disease and Treatment
A new study has revealed that exposure to common PFAS “forever chemicals” can cause changes in gene activity, helping explain how these substances may contribute to diseases like cancer, neurological disorders, and autoimmune conditions. Researchers analysed blood samples from 300 firefighters with high PFAS exposure and found that several genes and biological pathways, many tied to disease development and defense were impacted.
Importantly, the study linked specific types and structures of PFAS, such as PFOS, to changes in genes associated with cancer risk. Some gene changes were also related to Alzheimer’s, lupus, asthma, and other serious illnesses. While not all PFAS compounds affected genes, the research points to potential pathways through which PFAS interfere with our biology.
The findings are an important step toward pinpointing the mechanisms behind PFAS-linked disease, which could aid in future diagnosis and treatment. Pharmaceutical companies are now exploring drugs that can alter gene activity to prevent or lessen PFAS-related health impacts.
Bottom line: Emerging science is showing PFAS exposure can change the way our genes work, increasing the risk for a broad range of diseases and unlocking new avenues for treatment and prevention.
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Puraffinity partners with the U.S. Army ERDC to evaluate Puratech G400, an advanced adsorbent for PFAS removal, through lab and field trials comparing its performance and cost-effectiveness to existing PFAS treatment technologies
The PFAS Treatment Europe 2025 conference is a major industry event focused on advanced solutions for treating PFAS contamination. It brings together utilities, water companies, regulators, and industry experts to share the latest developments, strategies, and innovations for managing PFAS in Europe. Key topics include regulatory updates, remediation technologies, socio-economic impacts, and case studies from across the continent. Our CEO, Vincent Caillaud , will be in attendance.
WEFTEC 2025 is the world’s largest annual water quality conference and exhibition, held September 27–October 1, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago. It gathers over 20,000 water professionals from 100+ countries to explore cutting-edge water technologies, attend technical sessions and workshops, and network with sector leaders. The event features a massive exhibition of advanced solutions, educational opportunities, and speciality pavilions focused on topics like sustainability and digital innovation. Our CEO, Vincent Caillaud , and CCO, Neal Megonnell , will be in attendance.
In the Building World-Class Teams webinar series, Henrik Hagemann and Jessica Middlesmiss will be discussing how to Create Cultures that Scale
Neal Megonnell brings over three decades of experience in various leadership, technology and sales roles in the carbon industry to his new position at Puraffinity. His extensive background and expertise in the water treatment sector and the specific technologies for removing contaminants make him an invaluable addition to the company's executive team. In his role as CCO, Neal will be responsible for driving Puraffinity's commercial strategy, expanding market presence, and accelerating growth in the rapidly evolving field of PFAS removal technologies. "We are thrilled to welcome Neal to our team," said Vincent Caillaud, CEO of Puraffinity. "His impressive track record in the industry, coupled with his deep understanding of PFAS-related challenges, aligns perfectly with our mission. His background in R&D, with multiple published papers and two patents related to activated carbon, will be instrumental in driving our commercial success and furthering our goal of providing innovative PFAS removal solutions." Neal holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and a Master’s in Colloids, Polymers and Surfaces. This strong academic foundation, combined with his extensive industry experience, positions him well to lead Puraffinity's commercial efforts in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Neal's expertise is extensively demonstrated through his strategic involvement in various professional committees, including Chair of the American Water Works Association Standards on Activated Carbon Committee, the ASTM D28 Activated Carbon Committee, and serving as Chairman of the Standards for Activated Carbon. "I am thrilled to join Puraffinity at this exciting time," said Neal Megonnell. "The company's commitment to developing sustainable adsorbent materials for PFAS removal aligns with my passion for innovative water treatment solutions. I look forward to working with the talented team at Puraffinity to expand our market reach and deliver cutting-edge technologies to communities and industries worldwide."