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This is a Observational study (also classified as: Molecular Dynamics).

September 10, 2025Open Access

PFOA induces fission of phase-separated phospholipid vesicles

SHSeungsu HanUniversity of Geneva EPEmad PirhadiUniversity at Buffalo, State University of New York XYXin YongSouthwest Petroleum University

Key Points

PFOA causes rapid fission of phase-separated vesicles along the boundary, raising concerns about its impact on cells.
The study found that PFOA markedly alters the spontaneous curvature of vesicles, initiating the fission process.
Using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations, the research details the molecular mechanism behind PFOA-induced vesicle fission.
These findings emphasize the potential harmful effects of PFAS exposure on cellular membranes, necessitating further investigation.

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are known for their strong surface activity, making it easy for them to disrupt cellular membranes. Here, we examine how perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), one of the most widespread PFAS species in the environment, interacts with phase-separated ternary vesicles as a model system for cellular membranes. We show experimentally that PFOA induces rapid fission of the vesicles along the phase boundary. All-atom molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the mechanism behind the fission process is attributed to a drastic change in the spontaneous curvature of the vesicle upon interacting with PFOA. Our findings reveal the significance of PFAS on the dynamics of phase-separated vesicles, implying a potential disruptive impact of PFAS exposure on cellular membranes.

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