Cambiotics Launches Groundbreaking Clinical Trial to Combat PFAS in Firefighters

Cambiotics Initiates First Clinical Trial for PFAS Reduction in Firefighters

Cambiotics ApS, a biotech company headquartered in Copenhagen, has made a significant stride in addressing the health impacts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly referred to as 'forever chemicals'. On November 3, 2026, the company proudly announced the enrollment of the first participant in a human clinical trial that aims to evaluate the efficacy of its proprietary probiotic strain, 46-SL1, as a dietary supplement for firefighters exposed to PFAS.

Understanding PFAS Exposure

PFAS are man-made chemicals persistent in the environment and human body, posing serious health risks. Firefighters are particularly vulnerable as they can encounter PFAS in firefighting foams and protective equipment. The challenge of PFAS accumulation in human bodies is alarming, with the CDC's NHANES survey revealing the presence of at least one PFAS chemical in over 99% of the U.S. population samples.

The clinical trial led by Atlantia Clinical Trials in Chicago is a rigorous 2 x 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study. It will involve 70 firefighters who have previously worked with PFAS, focusing on whether the daily intake of the probiotic 46-SL1 can influence the concentration of PFAS in their blood serum. Safety, tolerability, and changes in the fecal microbiome will also be assessed, highlighting the comprehensive approach Cambiotics is taking.

The Role of Probiotics

The 46-SL1 strain has been specifically developed to enhance the body's natural mechanisms for eliminating harmful compounds, including PFAS. Cambiotics believes that this trial could pave the way for innovative solutions to mitigate the health burdens posed by these chemicals, expanding beyond firefighters to broader populations potentially impacted by PFAS.

CEO and Co-founder of Cambiotics, Peter Holme Jensen, expressed the urgency of this research, stating, "PFAS persist in the body for years, and until now, there has been very little anyone could do about it. The transition from laboratory work to clinical investigation is crucial, and we are thankful for both the clinical team and the firefighters participating in this endeavor."

Dr. Stacey Boetto, the Principal Investigator, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the important role of firefighters in community safety and expressing gratitude for their participation in this vital study. She stated, "I am pleased to begin this important study to evaluate a potential approach to reducing PFAS burden in this population. My team and I look forward to generating data that can inform future efforts."

The Path Ahead

Originating from research conducted at the MRC Toxicology Unit in Cambridge, Cambiotics was founded in 2024 and aims to leverage scientific breakthroughs to develop next-generation probiotic solutions targeting PFAS. The research published in Nature Microbiology in 2025 described gut bacteria capable of accumulating PFAS and demonstrated a link between bacterial PFAS accumulation and increased excretion from the body.

The clinical trial signifies the first step in Cambiotics’ progression toward launching its first dietary supplement, anticipated in early 2027. This momentous initiative has been supported by a €4 million Seed investment round, highlighting the growing interest and urgency surrounding solutions to combat PFAS contamination.

For more information on Cambiotics and its groundbreaking work, visit cambiotics.com and follow them on LinkedIn.

Conclusion

As Cambiotics strides forward, tackling one of the pressing health challenges of our time, the outcomes of this clinical trial could provide not only relief for firefighters but also set the stage for a broader application in reducing PFAS exposure across various demographics. The world watches eagerly as this innovative approach unfolds.