Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID IN_2024_Pfrender

Microbiome Interactions with PFAS: An Invisible Risk for Wild and Farmed Fish

Institute: Indiana
USGS Grant Number:
Year Established: 2024 Start Date: 2025-01-01 End Date: 2026-12-31
Total Federal Funds: $309,800 Total Non-Federal Funds: $379,307

Principal Investigators: Michael Pfrender

Project Summary: This study aims to use an integrated multi-omics approach to investigate the toxicological effects of PFAS on the microbiome of farmed and wild fish, as well as the potential of microbiomes to transform PFAS compounds. While variations in microbial composition due to PFAS exposure have been observed in mice, comparable data for fish are lacking. Understanding the impact of PFAS on the microbiome present in fish gills, mucus, and intestines is crucial, as a healthy microbiome plays a vital role in digestion and disease protection. Through exposure experiments with varying PFAS concentrations, we aim to assess the effects of PFAS on fish microbiomes and investigate if fish guts can break down PFAS precursors into terminal products. Building upon our previous research on PFAS contamination in Lake Michigan, this multi-omics study will provide valuable insights for conservation strategies in aquaculture and mitigating potential economic losses associated with PFAS contamination.