To observe the effect of orally intake of perfluorocaprylic acid (PFOA) on serum antioxidant capacity in SD rats.MethodsThirty male SD rats were randomly divided into three groups (0,5and 100mg/kg BW, respectively) and orally exposed to PFOA for 7days. Serum were collected and the serum total antioxidant capacity, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and total glutathione (GSH) contents were determined. ResultsExposure to PFOA for 7days caused a significant decrease of body weight and liver enlargement. In 100mg/kg BW group, the serum total antioxidant capacity was significantly decreased (P＜0.05), lipid peroxidation product MDA concentration was significantly increased, but GSH level was only slightly decreased (P＞0.05). Meanwhile, serum SOD activity was significantly increased after PFOA exposure.ConclusionPFOA is toxic to rats, leading to weight loss, liver damage and a decreased antioxidant capacity in male rats. However, the underlying mechanisms of oxidative damage caused by PFOA exposure still needs further elucidation.