Per/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are contaminants of emerging concern that can impair immune function, yet few studies have tested whether exposure increases infection risk.  Using laboratory experiments, we found that exposure to 10 ppb of perfluorohexanesulfonic acid increased trematode (Echinoparyphiumlineage 3) infectionsin larval northern leopard frogs (Lithobates pipiens). However, there was no effect of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid. Our results demonstrate that PFAS can potentially enhance infection risk in natural systems. 

Researchers should cite this work as follows:

• Brown, S.; Flynn, W.; Hoverman, J. T. (2020). Data from: Perfluoroalkyl substances increase susceptibility of northern leopard frog tadpoles to trematode infection. Purdue University Research Repository. doi:10.4231/Q5AE-XK39

  BibTex | EndNote

1. Amphibian
2. contaminants of emerging concern
3. Disease Ecology
4. Forestry and Natural Resources
5. Forestry and Natural Resources (Dept)
6. Parasite
7. perfluoroalkyl substances
8. wetlands