1
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Wen Y, Juhasz A, Cui X. Regulating the absorption and excretion of perfluorooctane sulfonate and its alternatives through influencing enterohepatic circulation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 933:173161. [PMID: 38735313 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Enterohepatic circulation has been reported to play a significant role in the bioaccumulation of PFASs. In this study, the tissue distribution and excretion of PFOS and its alternatives, namely 6:2 and 8:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (FTSA) was investigated using a mouse assay with a focus on role of enterohepatic circulation. Liver was the primarily accumulating organ for PFOS and 8:2 FTSA (33.4 % and 25.8 % of total doses absorbed after 14 days), whereas 65 % of 6:2 FTSA was excreted via urine within 24 h. Peak levels of 8:2 FTSA and PFOS were found in the gallbladder, implying the important role of enterohepatic circulation in PFASs reabsorption. The role of enterohepatic circulation was further evaluated through co-exposure of 8:2 FTSA and PFOS with medicines (namely metformin (MET) and ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA)). MET reduced accumulation of 8:2 FTSA and PFOS in the liver by 68.6 % and 65.8 %, through down-regulation of bile acid transporter (Asbt) and enhancement of fecal excretion. Conversely, UDCA raised their concentrations by 21.9 % and 34.6 % compared to that exposed solely to PFASs. A strong positive correlation was identified between PFASs serum levels and Asbt expression. This study illuminated PFAS bioaccumulation mechanisms and suggested potential strategies to mitigate the exposure risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Albert Juhasz
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, South Australia 5095, Australia
| | - Xinyi Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China.
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2
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He C, Lin X, Li P, Hou J, Yang M, Sun Z, Zhang S, Yang K, Lin D. Nematode Uptake Preference toward Different Nanoplastics through Avoidance Behavior Regulation. ACS NANO 2024; 18:11323-11334. [PMID: 38635335 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c00736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Expounding bioaccumulation pathways of nanoplastics in organisms is a prerequisite for assessing their ecological risks in the context of global plastic pollution. Invertebrate uptake preference toward nanoplastics is a key initial step of nanoplastic food chain transport that controls their global biosafety, while the biological regulatory mechanism remains unclear. Here, we reveal a preferential uptake mechanism involving active avoidance of nanoplastics by Caenorhabditis elegans and demonstrate the relationship between the uptake preference and nanoplastic characteristics. Nanoplastics with 100 nm in size or positive surface charges induce stronger avoidance due to higher toxicity, causing lower accumulation in nematodes, compared to the 500 nm-sized or negatively charged nanoplastics, respectively. Further evidence showed that nematodes did not actively ingest any types of nanoplastics, while different nanoplastics induced defense responses in a toxicity-dependent manner and distinctly stimulated the avoidance behavior of nematodes (ranged from 15.8 to 68.7%). Transcriptomics and validations using mutants confirmed that the insulin/IGF signaling (IIS) pathway is essential for the selective avoidance of nanoplastics. Specifically, the activation of DAF-16 promoted the IIS pathway-mediated defense against nanoplastics and stimulated the avoidance behavior, increasing the survival chances of nematodes. Considering the genetical universality of this defense response among invertebrates, such an uptake preference toward certain nanoplastics could lead to cascaded risks in the ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caijiao He
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xintong Lin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Pei Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jie Hou
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Meirui Yang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ziyi Sun
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Daohui Lin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Organic Pollution Process and Control, Department of Environmental Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Zhejiang Ecological Civilization Academy, Anji 313300, China
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3
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Capozzi SL, Xia C, Shuwal M, Zaharias Miller G, Gearhart J, Bloom E, Gehrenkemper L, Venier M. From watersheds to dinner plates: Evaluating PFAS exposure through fish consumption in Southeast Michigan. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 345:140454. [PMID: 37839751 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Muscle tissue and organ samples of six different fish species were collected from ten locations in Southeast Michigan's Huron and Rouge watersheds. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were analyzed in 36 samples comprising filets, liver, gut, and eggs using targeted analysis and the direct total oxidizable precursor (dTOP) assay on a subset of six samples. The median concentrations of the ∑PFAS in filets from the Huron and Rouge watersheds were 13 and 6.3 ng/g wet weight (w.w.), respectively. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was the most detected and abundant compound in fish organs, with the liver having the largest overall burden of PFAS. The highest percent increase in targeted PFAS after the dTOP assay was observed in the Catfish filet (552%) while the smallest increase was in the Catfish liver (32%) accounting for 1.3 and 8.1 nMole F/g dry weight (d.w.), respectively. The positive matrix factorization (PMF) analysis revealed three distinct PFAS sources, of which the one attributed to PFOS explained 73% of the data. Results from this work have important implications for fish consumption in Michigan waterways. Among the filet samples analyzed, the calculated daily consumption limit of total PFOS was exceeded in approximately 82% and 91% of samples for adults and children over the age of seven years old, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staci L Capozzi
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States.
| | - Chunjie Xia
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | - Matthew Shuwal
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
| | | | | | - Erica Bloom
- Ecology Center, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104, United States
| | - Lennart Gehrenkemper
- Inorganic Trace Analysis, Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM), Richard-WillstätterStraße 11, 12489, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marta Venier
- O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States
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4
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Carrizo JC, Munoz G, Vo Duy S, Liu M, Houde M, Amé MV, Liu J, Sauvé S. PFAS in fish from AFFF-impacted environments: Analytical method development and field application at a Canadian international civilian airport. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 879:163103. [PMID: 36972881 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Methods targeting anionic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in aquatic biota are well established, but commonly overlook many PFAS classes present in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs). Here, we developed an analytical method for the expanded analysis of negative and positive ion mode PFAS in fish tissues. Eight variations of extraction solvents and clean-up protocols were first tested to recover 70 AFFF-derived PFAS from the fish matrix. Anionic, zwitterionic, and cationic PFAS displayed the best responses with methanol-based ultrasonication methods. The response of long-chain PFAS was improved for extracts submitted to graphite filtration alone compared with those involving solid-phase extraction. The validation included an assessment of linearity, absolute recovery, matrix effects, accuracy, intraday/interday precision, and trueness. The method was applied to a set of freshwater fish samples collected in 2020 in the immediate vicinity (creek, n = 15) and downstream (river, n = 15) of an active fire-training area at an international civilian airport in Ontario, Canada. While zwitterionic fluorotelomer betaines were major components of the subsurface AFFF source zone, they were rarely detected in fish, suggesting limited bioaccumulation potential. PFOS largely dominated the PFAS profile, with record-high concentrations in brook sticklebacks (Culaea inconstans) from the creek (16000-110,000 ng/g wet weight whole-body). These levels exceeded the Canadian Federal Environmental Quality Guidelines (FEQG) for PFOS pertaining to the Federal Fish Tissue Guideline (FFTG) for fish protection and Federal Wildlife Diet Guidelines (FWiDG) for the protection of mammalian and avian consumers of aquatic biota. Perfluorohexane sulfonamide and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate were among the precursors detected at the highest levels (maximum of ∼340 ng/g and ∼1100 ng/g, respectively), likely reflecting extensive degradation and/or biotransformation of C6 precursors originally present in AFFF formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Cruz Carrizo
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; CONICET, CIBICI and Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Dpto. Bioquímica Clínica, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Gabriel Munoz
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sung Vo Duy
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Magali Houde
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - María Valeria Amé
- CONICET, CIBICI and Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Dpto. Bioquímica Clínica, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Jinxia Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sébastien Sauvé
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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5
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Yun X, Lewis AJ, Stevens-King G, Sales CM, Spooner DE, Kurz MJ, Suri R, McKenzie ER. Bioaccumulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances by freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates: Impact of species and sediment organic carbon content. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 866:161208. [PMID: 36581279 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in aquatic environments have caused global concern due to their persistence, toxicity, and potential bioaccumulation of some compounds. As an important compartment of the aquatic ecosystem, sediment properties impact PFAS partitioning between aqueous and solid phases, but little is known about the influence of sediment organic carbon content on PFAS bioaccumulation in benthic organisms. In this study, three freshwater benthic macroinvertebrates - worms (Lumbriculus variegatus), mussels (Elliptio complanata) and snails (Physella acuta) - were exposed for 28 days to PFAS spiked synthetic sediment equilibrated with a synthetic surface water. Using microcosms, sediment organic carbon content - 2%, 5% and 8% - was manipulated to assess its impact on PFAS bioaccumulation. Worms were found to have substantially greater PFAS bioaccumulation compared to mussels and snails. The bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) and biota sediment accumulation factors (BSAFs) in worms were both one to two magnitudes higher than in mussels and snails, likely due to different habitat-specific uptake pathways and elimination capacities among species. In these experiments, increasing sediment organic carbon content decreased the bioaccumulation of PFAS to benthic macroinvertebrates. In worms, sediment organic carbon content was hypothesized to impact PFAS bioaccumulation by affecting PFAS partitioning and sediment ingestion rate. Notably, the BSAF values of 8:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (FTS) were the largest among 14 PFAS for all species, suggesting that the benthic macroinvertebrates probably have different metabolic mechanisms for fluorotelomer sulfonic acids compared to fish evaluated in published literature. Understanding the impact of species and sediment organic carbon on PFAS bioaccumulation is key to developing environmental quality guidelines and evaluating potential ecological risks to higher trophic level species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Yun
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Asa J Lewis
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Galen Stevens-King
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Christopher M Sales
- Department of Civil, Architectural, and Environmental Engineering, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Daniel E Spooner
- Department of Biology, Lock Haven University, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania, Lock Haven, PA 17745, USA
| | - Marie J Kurz
- Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19103, USA; Environmental Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | - Rominder Suri
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Erica R McKenzie
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA.
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6
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Hao T, Gao Y, Li ZC, Zhou XX, Yan B. Size-Dependent Uptake and Depuration of Nanoplastics in Tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus) and Distinct Intestinal Impacts. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:2804-2812. [PMID: 36749610 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs, <1 μm) are of great concern worldwide because of their high potential risk toward organisms in aquatic systems, while very little work has been focused on their tissue-specific toxicokinetics due to the limitations of NP quantification for such a purpose. In this study, NPs with two different sizes (86 and 185 nm) were doped with palladium (Pd) to accurately determine the uptake and depuration kinetics in various tissues (intestine, stomach, liver, gill, and muscle) of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in water, and subsequently, the corresponding toxic effects in the intestine were explored. Our results revealed uptake and depuration constants of 2.70-378 L kg-1 day-1 and 0.138-0.407 day-1 for NPs in tilapia for the first time, and the NPs in tissues were found to be highly dependent on the particle size. The intestine exhibited the greatest relative accumulation of both sizes of NPs; the smaller NPs caused more severe damage than the larger NPs to the intestinal mucosal layer, while the larger NPs induced a greater impact on microbiota composition. The findings of this work explicitly indicate the size-dependent toxicokinetics and intestinal toxicity pathways of NPs, providing new insights into the ecological effects of NPs on aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianwei Hao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River De lta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 226237, China
| | - Ze-Chen Li
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River De lta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiao-Xia Zhou
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River De lta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Bing Yan
- Institute of Environmental Research at Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River De lta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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7
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Jones DK, Quinlin KA, Wigren MA, Choi YJ, Sepúlveda MS, Lee LS, Haskins DL, Lotufo GR, Kennedy A, May L, Harmon A, Biber T, Melby N, Chanov MK, Hudson ML, Key PB, Chung KW, Moore DW, Suski JG, Wirth EF, Hoverman JT. Acute Toxicity of Eight Aqueous Film-Forming Foams to 14 Aquatic Species. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:6078-6090. [PMID: 35486899 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c03776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Researchers have developed numerous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-free aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) formulations to replace PFAS-containing AFFF used for fire suppression. As part of the Department of Defense's Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP), we examined the direct lethal effects of seven PFAS-free AFFF and a PFAS-containing AFFF on 14 aquatic species using a series of lethal concentration (LC50) tests. We assessed the LC10, LC50, and LC90 values using log-logistic and logit analyses. Across all aquatic species tested, we discovered that exposure to at least one PFAS-free AFFF was more or as toxic as exposure to the PFAS-containing AFFF. For most cases, National Foam Avio F3 Green KHC 3% and Buckeye Platinum Plus C6MILSPEC 3% were the most and least toxic formulations, respectively. Moreover, we found consistency among results from multiple experiments using the same minnow species (Pimephales promelas) and among closely related taxa (e.g., daphnids, amphibians). Lastly, the LC50 values for AFFF formulations trended lower for tested marine species as compared to those of freshwater species. These results dramatically increase the current knowledge on the potentially toxic effects of AFFF but also highlight the need for additional research and the development of new PFAS-free AFFF that are more "ecologically friendly" than those containing persistent PFAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin K Jones
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Kathryn A Quinlin
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Maggie A Wigren
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Youn J Choi
- Department of Agronomy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Maria S Sepúlveda
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Linda S Lee
- Department of Agronomy, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - David L Haskins
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
| | - Guilherme R Lotufo
- US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Environmental Laboratory, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180, United States
| | - Alan Kennedy
- US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Environmental Laboratory, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180, United States
| | - Lauren May
- US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Environmental Laboratory, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180, United States
| | - Ashley Harmon
- US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Environmental Laboratory, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180, United States
| | - Thomas Biber
- US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Environmental Laboratory, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180, United States
| | - Nicolas Melby
- US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Environmental Laboratory, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180, United States
| | - Michael K Chanov
- EA Engineering, Science and Technology, Inc. PBC, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031, United States
| | - Michelle L Hudson
- EA Engineering, Science and Technology, Inc. PBC, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031, United States
| | - Peter B Key
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Charleston, South Carolina 29412, United States
| | - Katy W Chung
- CSS, Inc. Under Contract to NOAA, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Charleston, South Carolina 29412, United States
| | - David W Moore
- US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center, Environmental Laboratory, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180, United States
| | - Jamie G Suski
- EA Engineering, Science and Technology, Inc. PBC, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21031, United States
| | - Edward F Wirth
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Ocean Service, National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science, Charleston, South Carolina 29412, United States
| | - Jason T Hoverman
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
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8
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McDonough CA, Li W, Bischel HN, De Silva AO, DeWitt JC. Widening the Lens on PFASs: Direct Human Exposure to Perfluoroalkyl Acid Precursors (pre-PFAAs). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:6004-6013. [PMID: 35324171 PMCID: PMC10782884 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c00254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Determining health risks associated with per-/polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) is a highly complex problem requiring massive efforts for scientists, risk assessors, and regulators. Among the most poorly understood pressing questions is the relative importance of pre-PFAAs, which are PFASs that degrade to highly persistent perfluoroalkyl acids. How many of the vast number of existing pre-PFAAs are relevant for direct human exposure, and what are the predominant exposure pathways? What evidence of direct exposure to pre-PFAAs is provided by human biomonitoring studies? How important are pre-PFAAs and their biotransformation products for human health risk assessment? This article outlines recent progress and recommendations toward widening the lens on human PFAS exposure to include the pre-PFAA subclass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie A. McDonough
- Department of Civil Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| | - Wenting Li
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Heather N. Bischel
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616 USA
| | - Amila O. De Silva
- Aquatic Contaminants Research Division, Water Science Technology Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, Ontario L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Jamie C. DeWitt
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
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9
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Wang Q, Ruan Y, Jin L, Lin H, Yan M, Gu J, Yuen CNT, Leung KMY, Lam PKS. Tissue-Specific Uptake, Depuration Kinetics, and Suspected Metabolites of Three Emerging Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) in Marine Medaka. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:6182-6191. [PMID: 35438980 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c07643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Restrictions on legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have led to the widespread use of emerging PFASs. However, their toxicokinetics have rarely been reported. Here, tissue-specific uptake and depuration kinetics of perfluoroethylcyclohexanesulfonate (PFECHS) and 6:2 and 8:2 chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonates (Cl-PFESAs) were studied in marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma). The fish were exposed to these substances for 28 days (0.2 μg/L), followed by a clearance period of 14 days. The depuration constant (kd) of PFECHS [0.103 ± 0.009 day-1 (mean ± standard deviation)] was reported for the first time. Among the six studied tissues, the highest concentrations of 6:2 Cl-PFESA, 8:2 Cl-PFESA, and PFECHS were found in the liver [1540, 1230, and 188 ng (g of wet weight)-1, respectively] on day 28 while the longest residence times were found in the eyes (t1/2 values of 21.7 ± 4.3, 23.9 ± 1.5, and 17.3 ± 0.8 days, respectively). No significant positive correlation was found between the bioconcentration factors of the studied PFASs and the phospholipid or protein contents in different tissues of the studied fish. Potential metabolites of Cl-PFESAs, i.e., their hydrogen-substituted analogues (H-PFESAs), were identified by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. However, the biotransformation rates were low (<0.19%), indicating the poor capacity of marine medaka to metabolize Cl-PFESAs to H-PFESAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Yuefei Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Linjie Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huiju Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Meng Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Jiarui Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Calista N T Yuen
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kenneth M Y Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Paul K S Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP) and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
- Office of the President, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
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10
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Kaboré HA, Goeury K, Desrosiers M, Vo Duy S, Liu J, Cabana G, Munoz G, Sauvé S. Novel and legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in freshwater sporting fish from background and firefighting foam impacted ecosystems in Eastern Canada. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 816:151563. [PMID: 34762942 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Emerging PFAS were recently reported at sites impacted by aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) and near major manufacturing centers; however, few studies have evaluated whether these can occur far from release sites. Here, newly identified PFAS were investigated in wild sporting fish from boreal freshwater ecosystems (background sites, 2013-2014 summer seasons), compared to fish impacted by a major AFFF release (summer 2013 and autumn 2014). Different freshwater wild sporting fish species (Esox lucius, Esox masquinongy, Micropterus dolomieu, Sander vitreus, Perca flavescens, and Semotilus corporalis, n = 74) were collected from 13 ecosystems (lakes, reservoirs, and rivers) across Eastern Canada. Of 29 quantitative PFAS, 15 compounds were detected in fish from background sites, including perfluorocarboxylates (C6,8-14), perfluoroalkane sulfonates (C6,8,10), perfluorooctane sulfonamide (FOSA), 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTSA), 7:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (7:3 FTCA), and a zwitterionic PFAS-perfluorooctane sulfonamidoalkyl betaine (PFOSB). To our knowledge, this is the first report of PFOSB in biota. It is also one of the first reports of anionic fluorotelomers (6:2 FTSA, 7:3 FTCA, 9:3 FTCA) in wildlife from background sites. Long-chain fluorotelomer sulfonamidoalkyl betaines (e.g., 8:2 and 10:2 FTAB), fluorotelomer betaines (e.g., 9:3 and 9:1:2 FTB), and fluorotelomer sulfone propanoic acids (e.g., 8:2 FT(SO2)-PA, 10:2 FT(SO2)-PA)) were solely prevalent (up to 97% of summed suspect PFAS) in Smallmouth Bass (M. dolomieu) from the AFFF-impacted site. Perfluorobutane sulfonamide (FBSA), perfluorohexane sulfonamide (FHxSA), 6:2 FTSA and 7:3 FTCA were detected in at least one Smallmouth Bass sample both at the AFFF-impacted and background sites. According to the estimated chronic daily intake and current tolerable daily intake suggested by national agencies, the observed PFOS levels would not pose a health risk to anglers who might consume these wild-caught fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann A Kaboré
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal (UdeM), Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Ken Goeury
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal (UdeM), Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Mélanie Desrosiers
- Centre d'expertise en analyse environnementale du Québec (CEAEQ), Ministère de l'Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, Québec City, QC G1P 3W8, Canada
| | - Sung Vo Duy
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal (UdeM), Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Jinxia Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Gilbert Cabana
- Département des Sciences de l'Environnement, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR), Trois-Rivières, QC G8Z 4M3, Canada
| | - Gabriel Munoz
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal (UdeM), Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Sébastien Sauvé
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal (UdeM), Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada.
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11
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Zhao S, Liu T, Zhu L, Yang L, Zong Y, Zhao H, Hu L, Zhan J. Formation of perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) during the exposure of earthworms to 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSA). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 760:143356. [PMID: 33158528 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSA) is a novel perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) alternative used globally in aqueous film forming foams (AFFFs). Although 6:2 FTSA has been recently detected in the environment, its fate in terrestrial invertebrates remains unclear. The uptake, elimination and biotransformation of 6:2 FTSA in earthworms (Eisenia fetida) were investigated after in vivo and in vitro exposure. 6:2 FTSA could be biodegraded by microorganisms in soil to trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), perfluoropropionic acid (PFPrA), perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA) and perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA). The uptake rate constant (ku) and biota-to-soil accumulation factor (BSAF) of 6:2 FTSA in earthworms were 0.185 goc/gww/d and 0.685 goc/gww, respectively, indicating high bioaccumulative ability in earthworms. Five terminal perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) metabolites, including TFA, PFPrA, PFBA, PFPeA and PFHxA were observed in both in vivo and in vitro exposure tests, with TFA as the predominant metabolite. However, no perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) was observed in the present study. The elimination rate constants (ke) increased in the order: 6:2 FTSA (0.057/d) < TFA (0.058/d) < PFPrA (0.071/d) < PFBA (0.084/d) < PFHxA (0.182/d) < PFPeA (0.193/d). Biodegradation of 6:2 FTSA in the earthworm homogenates, cytolchrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme solutions and glutathione-s-transferase (GST) enzyme solutions fitted well with the first order kinetics. The biotransformation rate constants (k) were in the following order: homogenates (0.012/h) > CYP450 (0.009/h) > GST (0.007/h), implying that CYP450 and GST were involved in biotransformation of 6:2 FTSA in earthworms. This study provides important theoretical evidence for the fate of 6:2 FTSA in earthworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China.
| | - Tianqi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, PR China
| | - Liping Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, PR China
| | - Yvlu Zong
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Huanting Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Longhui Hu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
| | - Jingjing Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Ocean Science and Technology, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin 124221, Liaoning, PR China
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12
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De Silva AO, Armitage JM, Bruton TA, Dassuncao C, Heiger-Bernays W, Hu XC, Kärrman A, Kelly B, Ng C, Robuck A, Sun M, Webster TF, Sunderland EM. PFAS Exposure Pathways for Humans and Wildlife: A Synthesis of Current Knowledge and Key Gaps in Understanding. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2021; 40:631-657. [PMID: 33201517 PMCID: PMC7906948 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 78.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
We synthesize current understanding of the magnitudes and methods for assessing human and wildlife exposures to poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Most human exposure assessments have focused on 2 to 5 legacy PFAS, and wildlife assessments are typically limited to targeted PFAS (up to ~30 substances). However, shifts in chemical production are occurring rapidly, and targeted methods for detecting PFAS have not kept pace with these changes. Total fluorine measurements complemented by suspect screening using high-resolution mass spectrometry are thus emerging as essential tools for PFAS exposure assessment. Such methods enable researchers to better understand contributions from precursor compounds that degrade into terminal perfluoroalkyl acids. Available data suggest that diet is the major human exposure pathway for some PFAS, but there is large variability across populations and PFAS compounds. Additional data on total fluorine in exposure media and the fraction of unidentified organofluorine are needed. Drinking water has been established as the major exposure source in contaminated communities. As water supplies are remediated, for the general population, exposures from dust, personal care products, indoor environments, and other sources may be more important. A major challenge for exposure assessments is the lack of statistically representative population surveys. For wildlife, bioaccumulation processes differ substantially between PFAS and neutral lipophilic organic compounds, prompting a reevaluation of traditional bioaccumulation metrics. There is evidence that both phospholipids and proteins are important for the tissue partitioning and accumulation of PFAS. New mechanistic models for PFAS bioaccumulation are being developed that will assist in wildlife risk evaluations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:631-657. © 2020 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Carla Ng
- University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anna Robuck
- University of Rhode Island, Graduate School of Oceanography, Narragansett, RI USA
| | - Mei Sun
- University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC USA
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13
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Wang Q, Ruan Y, Jin L, Zhang X, Li J, He Y, Wei S, Lam JCW, Lam PKS. Target, Nontarget, and Suspect Screening and Temporal Trends of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Marine Mammals from the South China Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:1045-1056. [PMID: 33395277 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c06685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been manufactured and widely used for over 60 years. Currently, there are thousands of marketed PFASs, but only dozens of them are routinely monitored. This work involved target, nontarget, and suspect screening of PFASs in the liver of Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin (Sousa chinensis) and finless porpoise (Neophocaena phocaenoides), two resident marine mammals in the South China Sea, stranded between 2012 and 2018. Among the 21 target PFASs, perfluorooctane sulfonate and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonate (6:2 Cl-PFESA) predominated in the samples, accounting for 46 and 30% of the total PFASs, respectively. Significantly higher total target PFAS concentrations (p < 0.05) were found in dolphin liver samples [3.23 × 103 ± 2.63 × 103 ng/g dry weight (dw)] than in porpoise liver samples (2.63 × 103 ± 1.10 × 103 ng/g dw). Significant increasing temporal trends (p < 0.05) were found in the concentrations of two emerging PFASs, perfluoroethylcyclohexane sulfonate and 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoro-2-propanoate in porpoises, indicating increasing pollution by these emerging PFASs. Forty-four PFASs from 9 classes were additionally identified by nontarget and suspect screening, among which 15 compounds were reported for the first time in marine mammals. A primary risk assessment showed that the emerging PFAS 6:2 Cl-PFESA could have possible adverse effects in terms of reproductive injury potential on most of the investigated cetaceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- Department of Chemistry; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Yuefei Ruan
- Department of Chemistry; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Linjie Jin
- Department of Chemistry; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaohua Zhang
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Chemistry; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
| | - Yuhe He
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Si Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - James C W Lam
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Paul K S Lam
- Department of Chemistry; State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution (SKLMP), City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Hong Kong Branch of Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
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14
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Annunziato KM, Doherty J, Lee J, Clark JM, Liang W, Clark CW, Nguyen M, Roy MA, Timme-Laragy AR. Chemical Characterization of a Legacy Aqueous Film-Forming Foam Sample and Developmental Toxicity in Zebrafish ( Danio rerio). ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2020; 128:97006. [PMID: 32966100 PMCID: PMC7510953 DOI: 10.1289/ehp6470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drinking water contamination related to the use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) has been documented at hundreds of military bases, airports, and firefighter training facilities. AFFF has historically contained high levels of long-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which pose serious health concerns. However, the composition and toxicity of legacy AFFF mixtures are unknown, presenting great uncertainties in risk assessment and affected communities. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the fluorinated and nonfluorinated chemical composition of a legacy AFFF sample and its toxicity in zebrafish embryos. METHODS A sample of legacy AFFF (3% application formulation, manufactured before 2001) was provided by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. High resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) was used to identify PFAS and nonfluorinated compounds, and a commercial laboratory measured 24 PFAS by a modified U.S. EPA Method 537.1. AFFF toxicity was assessed in zebrafish embryos in comparison with four major constituents: perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS); perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS); sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS); and sodium tetradecyl sulfate (TDS). End points included LC 50 values, and sublethal effects on growth, yolk utilization, and pancreas and liver development. RESULTS We identified more than 100 PFAS. Of the PFAS detected, PFOS was measured at the highest concentration (9,410 mg / L ) followed by PFHxS (1,500 mg / L ). Fourteen nonfluorinated compounds were identified with dodecyl sulfate and tetradecyl sulfate the most abundant at 547.8 and 496.4 mg / L , respectively. An LC 50 of 7.41 × 10 - 4 % AFFF was calculated, representing a dilution of the 3% formulation. TDS was the most toxic of the constituents tested but could not predict the AFFF phenotype in larval zebrafish. PFOS exposure recapitulated the reduction in length but could not predict effects on development of the liver, which was the tissue most sensitive to AFFF. DISCUSSION To our knowledge, this research is the first characterization of the chemical composition and toxicity of legacy AFFF, which has important implications for regulatory toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP6470.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate M. Annunziato
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffery Doherty
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonghwa Lee
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John M. Clark
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Wenle Liang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Christopher W. Clark
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Malina Nguyen
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Monika A. Roy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
- Biotechnology Training Program, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alicia R. Timme-Laragy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Yang D, Han J, Hall DR, Sun J, Fu J, Kutarna S, Houck KA, LaLone CA, Doering JA, Ng CA, Peng H. Nontarget Screening of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Binding to Human Liver Fatty Acid Binding Protein. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:5676-5686. [PMID: 32249562 PMCID: PMC7477755 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
More than 1000 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been discovered by nontarget analysis (NTA), but their prioritization for health concerns is challenging. We developed a method by incorporating size-exclusion column co-elution (SECC) and NTA, to screen PFASs binding to human liver fatty acid binding protein (hL-FABP). Of 74 PFASs assessed, 20 were identified as hL-FABP ligands in which eight of them have high binding affinities. Increased PFAS binding affinities correlate with stronger responses in electrospray ionization (ESI-) and longer retention times on a C18 column. This is well explained by a mechanistic model, which revealed that both polar and hydrophobic interactions are crucial for binding affinities. Encouraged by this, we then developed an SECC method to identify hL-FABP ligands, and all eight high-affinity ligands were selectively captured from 74 PFASs. The method was further applied to an aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) product in which 31 new hL-FABP ligands were identified. Suspect and nontargeted screening revealed these ligands as analogues of perfluorosulfonic acids and homologues of alkyl ether sulfates (C8- and C10/EOn, C8H17(C2H4O)nSO4-, and C10H21(C2H4O)nSO4-). The SECC method was then applied to AFFF-contaminated surface waters. In addition to perfluorooctanesulfonic acid and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid, eight other AFFF chemicals were discovered as novel ligands, including four C14- and C15/EOn. This study implemented a high-throughput method to prioritize PFASs and revealed the existence of many previously unknown hL-FABP ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diwen Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jiajun Han
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Ross Hall
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jianxian Sun
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jesse Fu
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Steven Kutarna
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Keith A. Houck
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27711 USA
| | - Carlie A. LaLone
- Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, Minnesota 55804 United States
| | - Jon A. Doering
- Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, Minnesota 55804 United States
- National Research Council, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Duluth, Minnesota 55804 USA
| | - Carla A. Ng
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, 3700 O’Hara St, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - Hui Peng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- School of the Environment, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Corresponding author: Hui Peng, , Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5S3H6, Canada
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16
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McDonough CA, Choyke S, Ferguson PL, DeWitt JC, Higgins CP. Bioaccumulation of Novel Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Mice Dosed with an Aqueous Film-Forming Foam. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:5700-5709. [PMID: 32248687 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c00234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are widespread in the blood of the general human population, and their bioaccumulation is of considerable scientific and regulatory interest. PFAS exposure resulting from aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) ingestion is poorly understood due to the complexity of AFFF mixtures and the presence of polyfluorinated substances that may undergo metabolic transformation. C57BL/6 mice were dosed with an AFFF primarily containing electrochemically fluorinated PFASs for 10 days, followed by a 6 day depuration. Urine was collected throughout the study and serum was collected post-depuration. Samples were analyzed via high-resolution mass spectrometry. Relative to the dosing solution, C6 and C7 perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs) were enriched in dosed mouse serum, suggesting in vivo transformation of sulfonamide precursors. Some substituted C8 PFSAs [keto-perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), hydrogen-PFOS, and unsaturated PFOS] appeared to be more bioaccumulative than linear PFOS, or were formed in vivo from unidentified precursors. A series of seven peaks in dosed mouse serum was tentatively identified as sulfonimide dimers that were either a minor component of the AFFF or were formed via metabolism of other AFFF components. This work highlights the importance of sulfonamide precursors in contributing to bioaccumulation of AFFF-associated PFSAs and identifies several classes of potentially bioaccumulative novel PFASs that warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie A McDonough
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Sarah Choyke
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - P Lee Ferguson
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Jamie C DeWitt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina 27858, United States
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
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17
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Joudan S, Liu R, D'eon JC, Mabury SA. Unique analytical considerations for laboratory studies identifying metabolic products of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). Trends Analyt Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2019.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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18
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Munoz G, Desrosiers M, Vetter L, Vo Duy S, Jarjour J, Liu J, Sauvé S. Bioaccumulation of Zwitterionic Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Earthworms Exposed to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam Impacted Soils. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:1687-1697. [PMID: 31922403 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b05102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Critical knowledge gaps remain regarding the fate and effects of zwitterionic, cationic, and anionic perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), including assessment of their bioaccumulation potential. Here, biota soil accumulation factors (BSAFs) were assessed in earthworms (Eisenia fetida) exposed to soil microcosms amended with zwitterionic fluorotelomers and anionic perfluoroalkyl acids. The 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonamidoalkyl betaine (6:2 FTAB) bioaccumulated in earthworms [BSAF ∼ 2.5-5.4 (gdw,worm/gdw,soil)-1] but to a lesser extent than perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS: BSAF ∼ 21-29). The BSAF of perfluorocarboxylates increased from ∼2.0 for C4-C6 analogues to ∼92 for perfluorotridecanoate (C13). In earthworms exposed to Ansulite and Arctic Foam aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs), the BSAF was related to perfluorinated chain length for n:3 fluorotelomer betaines (FtBs), n:1:2 FtB, and n:2 FTAB. Earthworms were also collected in situ from a fire-equipment testing site at a major Canadian airport. Summed PFAS concentrations were between 65 000 and 830 000 ng g-1 wet weight, possibly the highest burden recorded in terrestrial biota. Fluorotelomer sulfonates (6:2 FTS, 8:2 FTS, and 10:2 FTS) and FtB were particularly prevalent. Field worms also displayed elevated concentrations of n:3 acids (n = 3-11), but not those from laboratory microcosms exposed to fluorotelomer-based AFFFs. The findings provide an important confirmation to recent data suggesting that fluorotelomer compounds may accumulate in invertebrate species with limited metabolization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Munoz
- Department of Chemistry , Université de Montréal , Montreal , Quebec H3C 3J7 , Canada
| | - Mélanie Desrosiers
- Centre d'expertise en analyse environnementale du Québec , Ministère de l'Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques , Quebec City , Quebec G1P3W8 , Canada
| | - Laura Vetter
- Department of Chemistry , Université de Montréal , Montreal , Quebec H3C 3J7 , Canada
- UFR Sciences Fondamentales et Appliquées , Université de Lorraine , 57070 Metz , France
| | - Sung Vo Duy
- Department of Chemistry , Université de Montréal , Montreal , Quebec H3C 3J7 , Canada
| | - Julie Jarjour
- Department of Civil Engineering , McGill University , Montreal , Quebec H3A 0C3 , Canada
| | - Jinxia Liu
- Department of Civil Engineering , McGill University , Montreal , Quebec H3A 0C3 , Canada
| | - Sébastien Sauvé
- Department of Chemistry , Université de Montréal , Montreal , Quebec H3C 3J7 , Canada
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Wang D, Jia H, Hong WJ, Xue X, Sun Y, Li YF, Guo W. Uptake, depuration, bioaccumulation, and selective enrichment of dechlorane plus in common carp (Cyprinus carpio). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:6269-6277. [PMID: 31865567 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-07239-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Dechlorane plus (DP) is a chlorinated flame retardant with high production volume (HPV) and is widely used in our daily necessities. In the present study, a laboratory-scale microcosm was built up to simulate the uptake, depuration, bioaccumulation, and stereoselective enrichment of DP in a lower concentration and equilibration condition. Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) were used for 32 days exposure and 32 days depuration. The concentration ratios of syn-DP to total DP (fsyn values) in fish examined were lower than that in commercial products. Rate constants of uptake (kS) and elimination (ke) for the syn- and anti-DP were calculated using a first-order kinetic model. The uptake rate constants of syn- and anti-DP were 0.63 and 0.89 day-1, respectively. The depuration rate constants of syn-DP (0.11 day-1) were similar to anti-DP (0.096 day-1), suggesting that anti-DP is absorbed faster than syn-DP by common carp. The estimated bioconcentration factors for both syn-DP (5700 L/kg) and anti-DP (9300 L/kg) were higher than the bioconcentration hazard criteria outlined in the Stockholm Convention, suggesting the bioconcentration potential to aquatic organisms for DP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dapeng Wang
- College of Navigation, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, 116026, China
| | - Hongliang Jia
- International Joint Research Centre for Persistent Toxic Substances (IJRC-PTS), College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, 116026, China.
| | - Wen-Jun Hong
- College of Quality and Safety Engineering, China Jiliang University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Xiaohong Xue
- International Joint Research Centre for Persistent Toxic Substances (IJRC-PTS), College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, 116026, China
- College of Science, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, 116026, China
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, China
| | - Yeqing Sun
- Institute of Environmental Systems Biology, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, China
| | - Yi-Fan Li
- International Joint Research Centre for Persistent Toxic Substances (IJRC-PTS), College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, 116026, China
- IJRC-PTS, State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150090, China
| | - Weijun Guo
- International Joint Research Centre for Persistent Toxic Substances (IJRC-PTS), College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian, 116026, China.
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20
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Yi S, Zhu L, Mabury SA. First Report on In Vivo Pharmacokinetics and Biotransformation of Chlorinated Polyfluoroalkyl Ether Sulfonates in Rainbow Trout. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:345-354. [PMID: 31774655 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b05258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This study provides the first in vivo pharmacokinetic data for chlorinated perfluorooctanesulfonate (Cl-PFOS), 6:2 and 8:2 chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonates (Cl-PFESAs), upon a 30 day dietary exposure and 34 day depuration phase in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Biological handling of these three novel molecules and legacy PFOS were investigated via cross-comparison. PFOS and Cl-PFOS displayed comparable bioaccumulative potencies and similar distribution tendencies in tissues (blood > liver > kidneys), despite the presence of a terminal chlorine atom in Cl-PFOS molecule. The Cl-PFESAs, especially 8:2 Cl-PFESA, were predominantly assimilated from the bloodstream by liver and kidneys and resisted elimination, leading to higher bioaccumulation factors in liver than in blood (0.576 and 0.254, respectively, for 8:2 Cl-PFESA) and longer half-lives in liver and kidneys than PFOS, suggesting these alternatives may pose greater risks in terms of the great accumulation potentials in fish tissues. The present study provides the first report of the in vivo transformation of 6:2 and 8:2 Cl-PFESAs and identifies 6:2 and 8:2 H-PFESAs as their respective sole metabolites. This provides the first line of evidence suggesting that the transformation susceptibility of Cl-PFESAs in organisms is distinct from their environmental persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujun Yi
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, P. R. China
| | - Scott A Mabury
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto M5S 3H6, Canada
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21
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Simonnet-Laprade C, Budzinski H, Maciejewski K, Le Menach K, Santos R, Alliot F, Goutte A, Labadie P. Biomagnification of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in the food web of an urban river: assessment of the trophic transfer of targeted and unknown precursors and implications. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2019; 21:1864-1874. [PMID: 31524218 DOI: 10.1039/c9em00322c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The present work examined the trophic transfer of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in a typical urban river (Orge River, near Paris, France), and aimed to investigate the potential contribution of precursors to the biomagnification of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs). Sixteen PFAAs, twelve of their precursors (pre-PFAAstargeted) and two fluorinated alternatives to long-chain PFASs were analyzed in water, sediments and biota (including biofilm, invertebrates and fish). Twenty two compounds were detected in biological samples (2.0-147 ng g-1 wet weight), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and C12-C14 perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCAs) being predominant while ∑pre-PFAAstargeted contributed to 1-18% of ∑PFASs. Trophic magnification factors (TMFs) were >1 (i.e. denoting biomagnification) for C9-C14 PFCAs, C7-C10 perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs) and several pre-PFAAs (e.g. 8 : 2 and 10 : 2 fluorotelomer sulfonates). The significant decrease in ∑pre-PFCAs/∑PFCAs concentration ratio with trophic level suggested a likely contribution of selected precursors to the biomagnification of PFCAs through biotransformation, while this was less obvious for PFOS. The total oxidizable precursor assay, applied for the first time to sediment and biota, revealed the presence of substantial proportions of extractable unknown pre-PFAAs in all samples (i.e. 15-80% of ∑PFASs upon oxidation). This proportion significantly decreased from sediments to invertebrates and fish, thereby pointing to the biotransformation of unattributed pre-PFAAs in the trophic web, which likely contributes to the biomagnification of some PFAAs (i.e. C9-C12 PFCAs and C7-C10 PFSAs).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Raphaël Santos
- HEPIA, Western Switzerland University of Applied Sciences, Ecology and Engineering of Aquatic Systems Research Group, CH-1254 Jussy, Switzerland
| | - Fabrice Alliot
- UMR 7619 METIS, EPHE/UPMC/CNRS, PSL Research University, Paris, F-75005, France
| | - Aurélie Goutte
- UMR 7619 METIS, EPHE/UPMC/CNRS, PSL Research University, Paris, F-75005, France
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22
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Langberg HA, Breedveld GD, Grønning HM, Kvennås M, Jenssen BM, Hale SE. Bioaccumulation of Fluorotelomer Sulfonates and Perfluoroalkyl Acids in Marine Organisms Living in Aqueous Film-Forming Foam Impacted Waters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:10951-10960. [PMID: 31353899 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b00927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The use of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) has resulted in hot spots polluted with poly- and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs). The phase out of long-chained perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) from AFFFs resulted in the necessity for alternatives, and short-chained PFAAs and fluorotelomer-based surfactants have been used. Here, the distribution of PFAS contamination in the marine environment surrounding a military site in Norway was investigated. Up to 30 PFASs were analyzed in storm, leachate, and fjord water; marine sediments; marine invertebrates (snails, green shore crab, great spider crab, and edible crab); and teleost fish (Atlantic cod, European place, and Lemon sole). Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) was the most abundantly detected PFAS. Differences in PFAS accumulation levels were observed among species, likely reflecting different exposure routes among trophic levels and different capabilities for depuration and/or enzymatic degradation. In agreement with previous literature, almost no 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS) was detected in teleost fish. However, this study is one of the first to report considerable concentrations of 6:2 FTS in marine invertebrates, suggesting bioaccumulation. Biota monitoring and risk assessments of sites contaminated with fluorotelomer sulfonates (FTSs) and related compounds should not be limited to fish, but should also include invertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Håkon A Langberg
- Environmental Department , Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) , N-0855 Oslo , Norway
- Department of Biology , Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) , NO-7491 Trondheim , Norway
| | - Gijs D Breedveld
- Environmental Department , Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) , N-0855 Oslo , Norway
- Department of Geosciences , University of Oslo (UiO) , 0371 Oslo , Norway
| | - Hege M Grønning
- Environmental Department , Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) , N-0855 Oslo , Norway
| | - Marianne Kvennås
- Environmental Department , Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) , N-0855 Oslo , Norway
| | - Bjørn M Jenssen
- Department of Biology , Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) , NO-7491 Trondheim , Norway
| | - Sarah E Hale
- Environmental Department , Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) , N-0855 Oslo , Norway
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23
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Zhao S, Liang T, Zhu L, Yang L, Liu T, Fu J, Wang B, Zhan J, Liu L. Fate of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid in pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima L.) based on hydroponic culture: Uptake, translocation and biotransformation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 252:804-812. [PMID: 31200206 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTSA) is currently used as an alternative to perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and is widely detected in the environment. The uptake, translocation and biotransformation of 6:2 FTSA in pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima L.) were investigated by hydroponic exposure for the first time. The root concentration factor (RCF) of 6:2 FTSA was 2.6-24.2 times as high as those of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) of the same or much shorter carbon chain length, demonstrating much higher bioaccumulative ability of 6:2 FTSA in pumpkin roots. The translocation capability of 6:2 FTSA from root to shoot depended on its hydrophobicity. Six terminal perfluorocarboxylic acid (PFCA) metabolites, including perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), perfluoropropionic acid (PFPrA) and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) were found in pumpkin roots and shoots. PFHpA was the primary metabolite in roots, while PFBA was the major product in shoots. 1-aminobenzotriazole (ABT), a cytochromes P450 (CYPs) suicide inhibitor, could decrease the concentrations of PFCA products with dose-dependent relationships in pumpkin tissues, implying the role of CYP enzymes involved in plant biotransformation of 6:2 FTSA. This study indicated that the application of 6:2 FTSA can lead to the occurrence of PFCAs (C2-C7) in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Food and Environment, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, 124221, PR China.
| | - Tiankun Liang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Food and Environment, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, 124221, PR China
| | - Lingyan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Liping Yang
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Ministry of Education, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, PR China
| | - Tianqi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Food and Environment, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, 124221, PR China
| | - Jia Fu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Food and Environment, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, 124221, PR China
| | - Bohui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Food and Environment, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, 124221, PR China
| | - Jingjing Zhan
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Food and Environment, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, 124221, PR China
| | - Lifen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (MOE), School of Food and Environment, Dalian University of Technology, Panjin, Liaoning, 124221, PR China
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24
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Zhu B, Jiang W, Wang W, Lin Y, Ruan T, Jiang G. Occurrence and Degradation Potential of Fluoroalkylsilane Substances as Precursors of Perfluoroalkyl Carboxylic Acids. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:4823-4831. [PMID: 30999748 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.9b00690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Polyfluoroalkylsilanes (PFASis) are a class of artificial chemicals with wide applications in surface coating, which arouse attention due to their hydrophobic/oleophobic properties and potential biological effects. In this study, a robust high-resolution mass spectrometry method through direct injection into a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance instrument was established, with the aid of CF2-scaled Kendrick mass defect analysis and isotope fine structure elucidation. The occurrence of 8:2 polyfluoroalkyl trimethoxysilane (8:2 PTrMeOSi) and 8:2 polyfluoroalkyl triethoxysilane (8:2 PTrEtOSi), as well as their cationic adducts, solvent substitutions, and other compound analogues, were identified in commercial antifingerprint liquid products. In the hydroxyl radical-based total oxidizable precursor assay, differential molar yields of products were observed with regard to varied PFASi carbon-chain lengths and terminal groups. The yields of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) from 8:2 PTrMeOSi conversion were the highest (92 ± 9%, n = 3), with the C ( n - 1) perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA, 49 ± 11%, n = 3) as the dominating product. Distinct conversion of 8:2 PTrMeOSi in the simulated solar exposure experiments found that C ( n) perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA, 0.6 ± 0.04 ‰, n = 3) was predominant, and 8:2 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid (8:2 FTCA, 0.59 ± 0.08‰, n = 3), 8:2 fluorotelomer unsaturated carboxylic acid (8:2 FTUCA, 0.09 ± 0.00‰, n = 3) intermediates were also observed. To our knowledge, this is the first report regarding the occurrence and degradation potential of several fluoroalkylsilane substances as PFCA precursors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bao Zhu
- Environment Research Institute , Shandong University , Binhai Road 72 , Qingdao 266237 , P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085 , P. R. China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Environment Research Institute , Shandong University , Binhai Road 72 , Qingdao 266237 , P. R. China
| | - Wenxing Wang
- Environment Research Institute , Shandong University , Binhai Road 72 , Qingdao 266237 , P. R. China
| | - Yongfeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085 , P. R. China
| | - Ting Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085 , P. R. China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences , Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085 , P. R. China
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25
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McDonough CA, Guelfo JL, Higgins CP. Measuring Total PFASs in Water: The Tradeoff between Selectivity and Inclusivity. CURRENT OPINION IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & HEALTH 2019; 7:13-18. [PMID: 33103012 PMCID: PMC7584354 DOI: 10.1016/j.coesh.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Millions of people around the world may be exposed to drinking water impacted by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) at levels exceeding local or national advisories. Many studies indicate that the full extent of PFAS contamination is significantly underestimated when only targeted analytical methods are used. Here, we review techniques using bulk organofluorine measurement to quantify the (as of yet) unidentified fraction of PFASs. We discuss advantages and disadvantages of specific approaches and their applicability to water analysis with a focus on the tradeoff between selectivity and inclusivity, and provide suggestions for a path forward to better characterize the wide array of PFASs present in environmental samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie A. McDonough
- Colorado School of Mines Civil & Environmental Engineering Department, 1500 Illinois Street, Golden, CO 80401
| | - Jennifer L. Guelfo
- Brown University School of Engineering, 184 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02912
| | - Christopher P. Higgins
- Colorado School of Mines Civil & Environmental Engineering Department, 1500 Illinois Street, Golden, CO 80401
- Corresponding author
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26
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Schultes L, Vestergren R, Volkova K, Westberg E, Jacobson T, Benskin JP. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and fluorine mass balance in cosmetic products from the Swedish market: implications for environmental emissions and human exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2018; 20:1680-1690. [PMID: 30427048 DOI: 10.1039/c8em00368h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a diverse class of >4700 chemicals used in commercial products and industrial processes. Concerns surrounding PFASs are principally due to their widespread occurrence in humans and the environment and links to adverse health effects. One of the lesser known uses for PFASs is in cosmetic products (CPs) which come into contact with the skin (e.g. hair products, powders, sunblocks, etc.). In the present work, thirty-one CPs from five product categories (cream, foundation, pencil, powder and shaving foam) were analyzed for 39 PFASs by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, as well as extractable organic fluorine (EOF) and total fluorine (TF) by combustion ion chromatography (CIC). This multi-platform approach enabled determination of the fraction of fluorine accounted for by known PFASs (i.e. fluorine mass balance). Foundations and powders contained 25 different PFASs with the most frequently detected being perfluorinated carboxylic acids (perfluoroheptanoic acid and perfluorohexanoic acid) and polyfluoroalkyl phosphate esters (PAPs). Σ14PAP concentrations up to 470 μg g-1 were measured in products listing mixtures of PAPs as an ingredient. For all samples, Σ39PFAS concentrations only explained a small fraction of the EOF and TF, pointing to the presence of unknown organic and/or inorganic fluorinated substances, including polymers. While creams, pencil and shaving foams did not contain measurable concentrations of any of the 39 PFASs targeted here, CIC revealed high to moderate TF content. Overall, these data highlight the need for further investigations into the occurrence of PFASs in CPs and their importance with regards to human and environmental exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Schultes
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
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27
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Cui Q, Pan Y, Zhang H, Sheng N, Dai J. Elevated concentrations of perfluorohexanesulfonate and other per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in Baiyangdian Lake (China): Source characterization and exposure assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 241:684-691. [PMID: 29902751 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.05.099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Novel 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (6:2 Cl-PFESA) and legacy PFASs, such as perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS), have been used to replace perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a known persistent organic pollutant. Thus, it is critical to understand these PFOS alternatives regarding their sources and concentrations in the natural environment. In this study, 41 surface water samples as well as edible aquatic organisms were collected from Baiyangdian Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hebei Province, China. Perfluorooctanoate acid (PFOA) and PFHxS were the predominant PFASs detected in the surface water, reaching concentrations of 8 397.23 ng/L and 1 478.03 ng/L, respectively, with PFHxS accounting for the greatest proportion (∼80.00%) in most water samples. PFHxS (mean: 87.53 ng/g) and PFOS (mean: 35.94 ng/g) were also the most prevalent compounds detected in aquatic organisms. Estimated daily intake (EDI) values of PFOS (16.56 ng/kg bw/d) and PFHxS (16.11 ng/kg bw/d) via aquatic food and drinking water were the highest among PFASs, indicating potential exposure risks to residents. In addition, fish product consumption was the important exposure pathway for residents to PFOA, PFHxS, PFOS, and 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (6:2 Cl-PFESA). This study reports on the highest PFHxS levels ever recorded in surface water, suggesting that further quantification of PFHxS in human serum and assessment of its health risks to local residents are warranted and critical.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Cui
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Yitao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Hongxia Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Nan Sheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - Jiayin Dai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.
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28
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Zabaleta I, Bizkarguenaga E, Nunoo DBO, Schultes L, Leonel J, Prieto A, Zuloaga O, Benskin JP. Biodegradation and Uptake of the Pesticide Sulfluramid in a Soil-Carrot Mesocosm. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:2603-2611. [PMID: 29415544 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b03876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
N-ethyl perfluorooctane sulfonamide (EtFOSA) is the active ingredient of Sulfluramid, a pesticide which is used extensively in South America for control of leaf-cutting ants. Despite being a known precursor to perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), the importance of EtFOSA as a source of environmental PFOS remains unclear. In the present work, uptake, leaching, and biodegradation of EtFOSA and its transformation products were assessed over 81 days in soil-carrot ( Daucus carota ssp sativus) mesocosms for the first time. Experiments performed in the presence of carrot produced PFOS yields of up to 34% using a technical EtFOSA standard and up to 277% using Grão Forte, a commercial Sulfluramid bait formulation containing 0.0024% EtFOSA. Perfluorooctane sulfonamido acetate (FOSAA), perfluorooctane sulfonamide (FOSA), and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) also formed over the course of the experiments, with the latter substance attributed to the presence of perfluorooctanamide impurities. The leachate contained low levels of transformation products and a high FOSA:PFOS ratio, consistent with recent observations in Brazilian surface water. In carrots, the more hydrophilic transformation products (e.g., PFOS) occurred primarily in the leaves, while the more hydrophobic products (e.g., FOSA, FOSAA, and EtFOSA) occurred in the peel and core. Remarkably, isomer-specific analysis revealed that the linear EtFOSA isomer biodegraded significantly faster than branched isomers. These data collectively show that the application of Sulfluramid baits can lead to the occurrence of PFOS in crops and in the surrounding environment, in considerably higher yields than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itsaso Zabaleta
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology , University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) , Bilbao , Spain
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES) , Stockholm University , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Ekhine Bizkarguenaga
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology , University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) , Bilbao , Spain
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES) , Stockholm University , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Deborah B O Nunoo
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES) , Stockholm University , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Lara Schultes
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES) , Stockholm University , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Juliana Leonel
- Department of Oceanography , Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina , Florianópolis , Brazil
| | - Ailette Prieto
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology , University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) , Bilbao , Spain
- Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology (PIE) , University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) , Plentzia , Spain
| | - Olatz Zuloaga
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology , University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) , Bilbao , Spain
- Research Centre for Experimental Marine Biology and Biotechnology (PIE) , University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) , Plentzia , Spain
| | - Jonathan P Benskin
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES) , Stockholm University , Stockholm , Sweden
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29
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Lin Y, Ruan T, Liu A, Jiang G. Identification of Novel Hydrogen-Substituted Polyfluoroalkyl Ether Sulfonates in Environmental Matrices near Metal-Plating Facilities. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:11588-11596. [PMID: 28918639 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.7b02961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Environmental occurrence and behaviors of 6:2 chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonate (Cl-6:2 PFESA, with trade name F-53B) have been receiving increased attention recently. Nevertheless, its potential fates under diversified conditions remain concealed. In this study, susceptibility of Cl-6:2 PFESA to reductive dehalogenation was tested in an anaerobic super-reduced cyanocobalamin assay. A rapid transformation of dosed Cl-6:2 PFESA was observed, with a hydrogen-substituted polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonate (1H-6:2 PFESA) identified as the predominant product by a nontarget screening workflow. With the aid of laboratory-purified standards, hydrogen-substituted PFESA analogues (i.e., 1H-6:2 and 1H-8:2 PFESA) were further found in river water and sediment samples collected from two separate regions near metal-plating facilities. Geometric mean concentrations of 560 pg/L (river water) and 11.1 pg/g (sediment) for 1H-6:2 PFESA and 11.0 pg/L (river water) and 7.69 pg/g (sediment) for 1H-8:2 PFESA were measured, and both analytes consisted average compositions of 1% and 0.1% among the 18 monitored per- and polyfluoroalkyl sulfonate and carboxylate pollutants, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first to report existence of polyfluoroalkyl sulfonates with both hydrogen and ether functional group in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfeng Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing, 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ting Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing, 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100049, China
| | - Aifeng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing, 100085, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Qingdao 266101, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing, 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100049, China
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Hale SE, Arp HPH, Slinde GA, Wade EJ, Bjørseth K, Breedveld GD, Straith BF, Moe KG, Jartun M, Høisæter Å. Sorbent amendment as a remediation strategy to reduce PFAS mobility and leaching in a contaminated sandy soil from a Norwegian firefighting training facility. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 171:9-18. [PMID: 28002769 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.12.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) containing poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) used for firefighting have led to the contamination of soil and water at training sites. The unique physicochemical properties of PFAS results in environmental persistency, threatening water quality and making remediation of such sites a necessity. This work investigated the role of sorbent amendment to PFAS contaminated soils in order to immobilise PFAS and reduce mobility and leaching to groundwater. Soil was sampled from a firefighting training facility at a Norwegian airport and total and leachable PFAS concentrations were quantified. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) was the most dominant PFAS present in all soil samples (between 9 and 2600 μg/kg). Leaching was quantified using a one-step batch test with water (L/S 10). PFOS concentrations measured in leachate water ranged between 1.2 μg/L and 212 μg/L. Sorbent amendment (3%) was tested by adding activated carbon (AC), compost soil and montmorillonite to selected soils. The extent of immobilisation was quantified by measuring PFAS concentrations in leachate before and after amendment. Leaching was reduced between 94 and 99.9% for AC, between 29 and 34% for compost soil and between 28 and 40% for the montmorillonite amended samples. Sorbent + soil/water partitioning coefficients (KD) were estimated following amendment and were around 8 L/kg for compost soil and montmorillonite amended soil and ranged from 1960 to 16,940 L/kg for AC amended soil. The remediation of AFFF impacted soil via immobilisation of PFAS following sorbent amendment with AC is promising as part of an overall remediation strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Gijs D Breedveld
- Norwegian Geotechnical Institute, Oslo, Norway; Department of Geosciences, University of Oslo, Norway
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Munoz G, Desrosiers M, Duy SV, Labadie P, Budzinski H, Liu J, Sauvé S. Environmental Occurrence of Perfluoroalkyl Acids and Novel Fluorotelomer Surfactants in the Freshwater Fish Catostomus commersonii and Sediments Following Firefighting Foam Deployment at the Lac-Mégantic Railway Accident. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:1231-1240. [PMID: 28056502 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b05432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED On July 6th 2013, an unmanned train laden with almost 8 million liters of crude oil careened off the rails downtown Lac-Mégantic (Québec, Canada). In the aftermath of the derailment accident, the emergency response entailed the deployment of 33 000 L of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) concentrate that contained proprietary fluorosurfactants. The present study examines the environmental occurrence of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and newly identified per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in the benthic fish white sucker (Catostomus commersonii) and sediments from Lake Mégantic and Chaudière River. In sediments, PFAAs displayed relatively low concentrations (∑PFAAs = 0.06-0.5 ng g-1 dw) while the sum of fluorotelomer-based PFASs was in the range < LOD-6.2 ng g-1 dw. Notably, fluorotelomer sulfonamide betaines (8:2-FTAB and 10:2-FTAB), fluorotelomer betaines (9:3-FTB, 11:3-FTB and 9:1:2 FTB) and 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2-FTSA) were ubiquitously identified in the sediment samples surveyed. Levels of PFAAs remained moderate in fish muscle (e.g. , PFOS 0.28-2.1 ng g-1 wet-weight), with little or no differences when comparing 2013 or 2014 fish samples with 2011 archived samples. In contrast, n:2-FTSAs emerged in the immediate weeks or months that followed the accident, as did several betaine-based PFASs (8:2-FTAB, 10:2-FTAB, 9:3-FTB, 11:3-FTB, 7:1:2 FTB and 9:1:2 FTB), observed for the first time in situ. Fluorotelomer thioether amido sulfonate (10:2-FTSAS) and fluorotelomer sulfoxide amido sulfonate (10:2-FTSAS-sulfoxide) were also occasionally reported after the AFFF spill. With time, levels of betaine-based PFASs gradually decreased in fish, possibly indicating attenuation by biodegradation of the fluorine-free moiety, supported by the observation of likely metabolites such as n:3-fluorotelomer carboxylates and n:2-fluorotelomer sulfonamides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Munoz
- Université de Bordeaux, EPOC, UMR 5805, LPTC Research Group, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33400 Talence, France
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Quebec, Canada , H3C 3J7
| | - Mélanie Desrosiers
- Centre d'expertise en analyse environnementale du Québec (CEAEQ), Ministère du Développement durable, de l'Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques (MDDELCC), 2700 Einstein Street, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada , G1P 3W8
| | - Sung Vo Duy
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Quebec, Canada , H3C 3J7
| | - Pierre Labadie
- Université de Bordeaux, EPOC, UMR 5805, LPTC Research Group, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33400 Talence, France
- CNRS, EPOC, UMR 5805, LPTC Research Group, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33400 Talence, France
| | - Hélène Budzinski
- Université de Bordeaux, EPOC, UMR 5805, LPTC Research Group, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33400 Talence, France
- CNRS, EPOC, UMR 5805, LPTC Research Group, 351 Cours de la Libération, F-33400 Talence, France
| | - Jinxia Liu
- McGill University , Department of Civil Engineering, 817 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada , H3A 0C3
| | - Sébastien Sauvé
- Department of Chemistry, Université de Montréal , C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Quebec, Canada , H3C 3J7
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Hansen S, Vestergren R, Herzke D, Melhus M, Evenset A, Hanssen L, Brustad M, Sandanger TM. Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances through the consumption of fish from lakes affected by aqueous film-forming foam emissions - A combined epidemiological and exposure modeling approach. The SAMINOR 2 Clinical Study. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2016; 94:272-282. [PMID: 27286038 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2016.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Releases of aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) from airport firefighting activities have been identified as important local point sources of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in nearby waterways. PFASs can be taken up by fish, and in turn by the humans that consume them. Despite the global extent of AFFF emissions, few studies exist on related impacts on humans. We aimed to investigate the associations between the consumption of fish from AFFF-affected waters and serum PFAS concentrations in humans using a combination of statistical tools, empirical data, and toxicokinetic modeling. Participants of the SAMINOR 2 Clinical Study were the basis for this study sample, which comprised 74 persons. Fifty-nine participants who reported consuming fish from AFFF-affected waters and 15 nonconsumers completed a questionnaire and gave serum samples. Participants were classified based on their consumption of trout and char: high (n=16), moderate (n=16), low (n=27), and nonconsumers (n=15); and serum samples were tested for the presence of 15 PFASs. Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) was found in all participants, with the highest concentrations detected in the high consumption group (geometric means, 28ng/mL) compared to the low consumption group and nonconsumers (10 and 11ng/mL, respectively). In an analysis of variance contrast model, a significant, positive increasing trend was seen for fish consumption and PFOS, perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA). Toxicokinetic modeling allowed us to predict the median increases in serum concentrations of PFOS, PFHxS, and PFNA among high consumers within a factor of 2.2. The combination of statistical evaluation and toxicokinetic modeling clearly demonstrated a positive relationship between consumption of fish from AFFF-affected waters and serum PFAS concentrations. Further studies on dietary exposure to other PFASs present in AFFF and its consequences on human health are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solrunn Hansen
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, P.O. Box 6050, Langnes, NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Robin Vestergren
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, Stockholm SE-10691, Sweden; NILU-Norwegian Institute of Air Research, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens gate 14, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Dorte Herzke
- NILU-Norwegian Institute of Air Research, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens gate 14, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Marita Melhus
- Centre for Sami Health Research, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, P.O. Box 6050, Langnes, NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Anita Evenset
- Akvaplan-niva, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens Gate 14, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway; Faculty of Biosciences, Fisheries and Economics, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, P.O. Box 6050, Langnes, NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Linda Hanssen
- NILU-Norwegian Institute of Air Research, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens gate 14, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Magritt Brustad
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, P.O. Box 6050, Langnes, NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Torkjel M Sandanger
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, P.O. Box 6050, Langnes, NO-9037 Tromsø, Norway; NILU-Norwegian Institute of Air Research, Fram Centre, Hjalmar Johansens gate 14, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway.
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Eriksson U, Roos A, Lind Y, Hope K, Ekblad A, Kärrman A. Comparison of PFASs contamination in the freshwater and terrestrial environments by analysis of eggs from osprey (Pandion haliaetus), tawny owl (Strix aluco), and common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 149:40-47. [PMID: 27174782 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2016.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 04/27/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The level of PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) contamination in freshwater and terrestrial Swedish environments in 2013/2014 was assessed by analyzing a range of perfluorinated alkyl acids, fluorotelomer acids, sulfonamides, sulfonamidoethanols and polyfluoralkyl phosphate diesters (diPAPs) in predator bird eggs. Stable isotopes ((13)C and (15)N) were analyzed to elucidate the dietary source. The tawny owl (Strix aluco, n=10) and common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus, n=40), two terrestrial species, and the osprey (Pandion haliaetus, n=30), a freshwater specie were included. In addition, a temporal trend (1997-2001, 2008-2009, 2013) in osprey was studied as well. The PFAS profile was dominated by perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) in eggs from osprey and tawny owl, while for common kestrel perfluorinated carboxylic acids (∑PFCA) exceeded the level of PFOS. PFOS concentration in osprey eggs remained at the same level between 1997 and 2001 and 2013. For the long-chained PFCAs, there were a significant increase in concentrations in osprey eggs between 1997 and 2001 and 2008-2009. The levels of PFOS and PFCAs were about 10 and five times higher, respectively, in osprey compared to tawny owl and common kestrel. Evidence of direct exposure from PFCA precursor compounds to birds in both freshwater and terrestrial environment was observed. Low levels of diPAPs were detected in a few samples of osprey (<0.02-2.4ng/g) and common kestrel (<0.02-0.16ng/g) eggs, and 6:2 FTSA was detected in a majority of the osprey eggs (<6.3-52ng/g). One saturated telomer acid (7:3 FTCA), which is a transformation marker from precursor exposure, was detected in all species (<0.24-2.7ng/g). The (15)N data showed higher levels in osprey eggs compared to tawny owl and common kestrel, indicating that they feed on a 2-3 times higher trophic level. We conclude that ospreys are continuously exposed to PFAS at levels where adverse toxic effects have been observed in birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrika Eriksson
- Man-Technology-Environment (MTM) Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Anna Roos
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, P.O. Box 50007, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ylva Lind
- Swedish Museum of Natural History, P.O. Box 50007, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kjell Hope
- Man-Technology-Environment (MTM) Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Alf Ekblad
- Man-Technology-Environment (MTM) Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Anna Kärrman
- Man-Technology-Environment (MTM) Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
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Shi Y, Vestergren R, Xu L, Zhou Z, Li C, Liang Y, Cai Y. Human Exposure and Elimination Kinetics of Chlorinated Polyfluoroalkyl Ether Sulfonic Acids (Cl-PFESAs). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:2396-404. [PMID: 26866980 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b05849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The incomplete mass-balance of organic fluorine in human serum indicates the existence of unknown per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) with persistent and bioaccumulative properties. Here we characterized human exposure and elimination kinetics of chlorinated polyfluoroalkyl ether sulfonic acids (Cl-PFESAs) in metal plating workers (n = 19), high fish consumers (n = 45), and background controls (n = 8). Cl-PFESAs were detected in >98% of the sampled individuals with serum concentrations ranging <0.019-5040 ng/mL. Statistically higher median serum levels were observed in high fish consumers (93.7 ng/mL) and metal plating workers (51.5 ng/mL) compared to the background control group (4.78 ng/mL) (Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test, p < 0.01). Cl-PFESAs could account for 0.269 to 93.3% of ∑PFASs in human serum indicating that this compound class may explain a substantial fraction of previously unidentified organic fluorine in the Chinese population. Estimated half-lives for renal clearance (median 280 years; range 7.1-4230 years) and total elimination (median 15.3 years; range 10.1-56.4 years) for the eight carbon Cl-PFESA suggest that this is the most biopersistent PFAS in humans reported to date. The apparent ubiquitous distribution and slow elimination kinetics in humans underscore the need for more research and regulatory actions on Cl-PFESAs and PFAS alternatives with similar chemical structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085, China
| | - Robin Vestergren
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University , Stockholm SE 10691, Sweden
| | - Lin Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085, China
| | - Zhen Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Jianghan University , Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Chuangxiu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yong Liang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Chemical Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Jianghan University , Wuhan 430056, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University , Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Yaqi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences , Beijing 100085, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University , Wuhan 430056, China
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Prosser RS, Mahon K, Sibley PK, Poirier D, Watson-Leung T. Bioaccumulation of perfluorinated carboxylates and sulfonates and polychlorinated biphenyls in laboratory-cultured Hexagenia spp., Lumbriculus variegatus and Pimephales promelas from field-collected sediments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 543:715-726. [PMID: 26615489 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2015.11.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and perfluorinated carboxylates and sulfonates (PFASs) are persistent pollutants in sediment that can potentially bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms. The current study investigates variation in the accumulation of PCBs and PFASs in laboratory-cultured Hexagenia spp., Lumbriculus variegatus and Pimephales promelas from contaminated field-collected sediment using 28-day tests. BSAF(lipid) (lipid-normalized biota-sediment accumulation factor) values for total concentration of PCBs were greater in Hexagenia spp. relative to L. variegatus and P. promelas. The distribution of congeners contributing to the total concentration of PCBs in tissue varied among the three species. Trichlorobiphenyl congeners composed the greatest proportion of the total concentration of PCBs in L. variegatus while tetra- and pentabiphenyl congeners dominated in Hexagenia spp. and P. promelas. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was present in all three species at concentrations greater than all other PFASs analyzed. Hexagenia spp. also produced the greatest BSAF(lipid) and BSAF(ww) (non-lipid-normalized biota-sediment accumulation factor) values for PFOS relative to the other two species. However, this was not the case for all PFASs. The trend of BSAF values and number of carbon atoms in the perfluoroalkyl chain of perfluorinated carboxylates varied among the three species but was similar for perfluorinated sulfonates. Differences in the dominant pathways of exposure (e.g., water, sediment ingestion) likely explain a large proportion of the variation in accumulation observed across the three species.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Prosser
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
| | - K Mahon
- Aquatic Toxicology Unit, Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - P K Sibley
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - D Poirier
- Aquatic Toxicology Unit, Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - T Watson-Leung
- Aquatic Toxicology Unit, Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Baduel C, Paxman CJ, Mueller JF. Perfluoroalkyl substances in a firefighting training ground (FTG), distribution and potential future release. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2015; 296:46-53. [PMID: 25966923 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigates the occurrence and fate of 15 perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and one fluorotelomer sulfonate from a firefighting training ground (FTG) that was contaminated by intensive use of aqueous film forming foams (AFFF). The contamination levels and their spatial and vertical distribution are assessed in the structure. At the surface of the pad, perfluorooctane sulphonate (PFOS) is the dominant PFASs measured, with concentration varying from 10 to 200 μg g(-1). PFASs were also detected in a concrete core at up to 12 cm depth, suggesting the vertical movement and higher transport potential of shorter chain compounds. The estimated mass load of linear PFOS in this specific pad was >300 g with a total of 1.7 kg for the sum of all PFASs analyzed. The kinetics of desorption of PFOS, PFOA and 6:2FTS from the concrete into an overlaying static water volume has been measured under field conditions at two constant temperatures. Fitting the desorption data and estimated rainfall/runoff to a kinetic model suggests that this and similar firefighting training pads will likely remain a source of PFASs for many decades (t0.5=25 years for PFOS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Baduel
- The University of Queensland, National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology, (Entox), Coopers Plains, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Christopher J Paxman
- The University of Queensland, National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology, (Entox), Coopers Plains, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jochen F Mueller
- The University of Queensland, National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology, (Entox), Coopers Plains, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Abstract
Purpose: To inform questions raised by inconsistent findings regarding an association between perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) and prostate cancer by assessing the relationship of PFAAs in human serum to prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Materials and Methods: Using 2005 to 2006 survey data from a large survey population, we compared serum PFAA concentrations in adult males with PSA concentrations adjusted for risk factors including age, body mass index, smoking status, and socioeconomic status. Results: Perfluoroalkyl acids are not consistently associated with PSA concentration in general, or with PSA more than 4.0. Discussion: These findings do not provide evidence that PFAA exposure is associated with PSA.
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Hoke RA, Ferrell BD, Ryan T, Sloman TL, Green JW, Nabb DL, Mingoia R, Buck RC, Korzeniowski SH. Aquatic hazard, bioaccumulation and screening risk assessment for 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate. CHEMOSPHERE 2015; 128:258-265. [PMID: 25725394 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2014] [Revised: 01/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the aquatic toxicity and bioaccumulation potential of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTSA). Acute and chronic aquatic hazard endpoints indicate 6:2 FTSA is not classified for aquatic hazard according to GHS or European CLP legislation. The aqueous bioconcentration factors for 6:2 FTSA were <40 and the dietary assimilation efficiency, growth corrected half-life and dietary biomagnification factor (BMF) were 0.435, 23.1d and 0.295, respectively. These data indicate that 6:2 FTSA is not bioaccumulative in aquatic organisms. Comparison of PNECs with the reported surface water concentrations (non-spill situations) suggests low risk to aquatic organisms from 6:2 FTSA. Future studies are needed to elucidate the biotic and abiotic fate of commercial AFFF surfactants in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Hoke
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, USA.
| | - Barbra D Ferrell
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Tim Ryan
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Terry L Sloman
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - John W Green
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Diane L Nabb
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Robert Mingoia
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Haskell Global Centers for Health and Environmental Sciences, Newark, DE 19711, USA
| | - Robert C Buck
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Chemicals & Fluoroproducts, Wilmington, DE 19805, USA
| | - Stephen H Korzeniowski
- E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Inc., Chemicals & Fluoroproducts, Wilmington, DE 19805, USA
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Rotander A, Kärrman A, Toms LML, Kay M, Mueller JF, Gómez Ramos MJ. Novel fluorinated surfactants tentatively identified in firefighters using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry and a case-control approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:2434-42. [PMID: 25611076 DOI: 10.1021/es503653n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Fluorinated surfactant-based aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) are made up of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) and are used to extinguish fires involving highly flammable liquids. The use of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and other perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in some AFFF formulations has been linked to substantial environmental contamination. Recent studies have identified a large number of novel and infrequently reported fluorinated surfactants in different AFFF formulations. In this study, a strategy based on a case-control approach using quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS/MS) and advanced statistical methods has been used to extract and identify known and unknown PFAS in human serum associated with AFFF-exposed firefighters. Two target sulfonic acids [PFOS and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS)], three non-target acids [perfluoropentanesulfonic acid (PFPeS), perfluoroheptanesulfonic acid (PFHpS), and perfluorononanesulfonic acid (PFNS)], and four unknown sulfonic acids (Cl-PFOS, ketone-PFOS, ether-PFHxS, and Cl-PFHxS) were exclusively or significantly more frequently detected at higher levels in firefighters compared to controls. The application of this strategy has allowed for identification of previously unreported fluorinated chemicals in a timely and cost-efficient way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rotander
- National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology (Entox), The University of Queensland , Coopers Plains, Queensland 4108, Australia
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Rich CD, Blaine AC, Hundal L, Higgins CP. Bioaccumulation of perfluoroalkyl acids by earthworms (Eisenia fetida) exposed to contaminated soils. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:881-888. [PMID: 25517891 DOI: 10.1021/es504152d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The presence of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in biosolids-amended and aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF)-impacted soils results in two potential pathways for movement of these environmental contaminants into terrestrial foodwebs. Uptake of PFAAs by earthworms (Eisenia fetida) exposed to unspiked soils with varying levels of PFAAs (a control soil, an industrially impacted biosolids-amended soil, a municipal biosolids-amended soil, and two AFFF-impacted soils) was measured. Standard 28 day exposure experiments were conducted in each soil, and measurements taken at additional time points in the municipal soil were used to model the kinetics of uptake. Uptake and elimination rates and modeling suggested that steady state bioaccumulation was reached within 28 days of exposure for all PFAAs. The highest concentrations in the earthworms were for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in the AFFF-impacted Soil A (2160 ng/g) and perfluorododecanoate (PFDoA) in the industrially impacted soil (737 ng/g). Wet-weight (ww) and organic carbon (OC)-based biota soil accumulation factors (BSAFs) for the earthworms were calculated after 28 days of exposure for all five soils. The highest BSAF in the industrially impacted soil was for PFDoA (0.42 goc/gww,worm). Bioaccumulation factors (BAFs, dry-weight-basis, dw) were also calculated at 28 days for each of the soils. With the exception of the control soil and perfluorodecanoate (PFDA) in the industrially impacted soil, all BAF values were above unity, with the highest being for perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHxS) in the AFFF-impacted Soil A (139 gdw,soil/gdw,worm). BSAFs and BAFs increased with increasing chain length for the perfluorocarboxylates (PFCAs) and decreased with increasing chain length for the perfluoroalkyl sulfonates (PFSAs). The results indicate that PFAA bioaccumulation into earthworms depends on soil concentrations, soil characteristics, analyte, and duration of exposure, and that accumulation into earthworms may be a potential route of entry of PFAAs into terrestrial foodwebs.
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Toxicology Data for Alternative “Short-Chain” Fluorinated Substances. TOXICOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF PERFLUOROALKYL AND POLYFLUOROALKYL SUBSTANCES 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-15518-0_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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