1
|
Chen ZW, Hua ZL. Characteristics of organic matter driven by Eichhornia crassipes during co-contamination with per(poly)fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and microplastics (MPs). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:176114. [PMID: 39255929 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176114] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Co-contamination with MPs and PFASs has been recorded, particularly in surface-water environments. Floating macrophyte microcosms are an important part of the surface water ecosystem, and dissolved organic matter (DOM) driven by floating macrophytes (FMDDOM) is critical for maintaining material circulation. However, knowledge gaps remain regarding the impact of MPs and PFASs co-pollution on FMDDOM. An greenhouse simulation experiment was conducted in this study to investigate the effects of four PFASs, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluoro-octane-sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluoro-2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic acid (Gen X), and potassium 9-chlorohexadecafluoro-3-oxanonane-1-sulfonate (F-53B), on FMDDOM sourced from Eichhornia crassipes (E. crassipes), a typical floating macrophyte, in the presence and absence of polystyrene (PS) MPs. Four PFASs increased FMDDOM release from E. crassipes, leading to a 32.52-77.49 % increase in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) levels. PS MPs further increased this, with results ranging from -21.28 % to 26.49 %. Based on the parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC), FMDDOM was classified into three types of fluorescent components: tryptophan-like, humic-like, and tyrosine-like compounds. Contaminants of MPs and PFASs modified the relative abundance of these three components. Protein secondary structure analysis showed that fluorocarbon bonds tended to accumulate on the α-helix of proteins in FMDDOM. The relative abundance of fluorescent and chromophorous FMDDOMs varied from 0.648 ± 0.044 to 0.964 ± 0.173, indicating that the photochemical structures of the FMDDOM were modified. FMDDOM exhibits decreased humification and increased aromaticity when contaminated with MPs and PFASs, which may be detrimental to the geochemical cycling of carbon. This study offers a theoretical basis for assessing the combined ecological risks of MPs and PFASs in floating macrophyte ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Wei Chen
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Zu-Lin Hua
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lakes, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China; Yangtze Institute for Conservation and Development, Nanjing 210098, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gang D, Jia H, Ji H, Li J, Yu H, Hu C, Qu J. Ecological risk of per-and polyfluorinated alkyl substances in the phytoremediation process: a case study for ecologically keystone species across two generations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 949:174961. [PMID: 39067584 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174961] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The potential ecological risk of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) in phytoremediation has raised social concerns, promoting a need to better understand their distribution and risks in the recovery process of aquatic plants. Herein, we aim to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the distribution and ecotoxicological effects of PFASs on the structure and function of water-macrophyte-sediment microcosm systems. Among the entire system, 63.0 %-73.1 % PFOA was found in sediments and submerged plants, however, 52.5 %-53.0 % of PFPeA and 47.0 %-47.5 % of PFBS remained in the water under different treatments. PFOA was more bioavailable than the other substances, as demonstrated by the bioaccumulation factors (BAF) with ranges exposed to PFPeA and PFBS. Bioaccumulation PFASs induced plant oxidative stress which generates enzymes to suppress superoxide, and disturbed the processes of lysine biosynthesis, in which allysine, meso-2,6-diaminoheptanedioate, and Nsuccinyl-2-amino-6-ketopimelate were downregulated. PFASs were detected in the propagator (turions) of an ecological restoration species, where short-chain PFASs (70.1 % and 45.7 % for 2 or 20 μg/L PFAS exposure, respectively) were found to spread further into new individuals and profoundly influence ecological processes shaping populations. PFASs significantly enhanced the number of microbial species in the sediment, but the degree of differentiation in the microbial community structure was not significantly different. This study enhances our understanding of the ecological mechanisms of PFASs in the water-macrophyte-sediment systems and potential threats to the recovery process of macrophytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diga Gang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Huawei Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, China
| | - He Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jingwen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Control Theory and Technology, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Hongwei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Chengzhi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jiuhui Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xu N, Jiang X, Liu Y, Junaid M, Ahmad M, Bi C, Guo W, Jiang C, Liu S. Chronic environmental level exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonate overshadows graphene oxide to induce apoptosis through activation of the ROS-p53-caspase pathway in marine medaka Oryzias melastigma. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 365:143374. [PMID: 39306112 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 08/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
The widespread occurrence of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and the mass production and application of graphene oxide (GO) lead to their inevitable release and interaction in the environment, which may enhance associated toxic impacts on aquatic organisms. This study elucidates the induction of apoptosis by 60-day chronic single and mixture exposures to environmentally relevant levels of PFOS (0.5 μg/L and 5 μg/L) and GO (1 mg/L) in adult marine medaka Oryzias melastigma. Results showed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, the apoptotic positive rate in livers, and activities of caspases 3, 8, and 9 in all treated groups compared to the control. PFOS individual and PFOS-GO combined exposures significantly impacted fish growth, upregulated expressions of six apoptosis-related genes including p53, apaf1, il1b, tnfa, bcl2l1, bax, as well as enriched cell cycle and p53 signaling pathways (transcriptomic analysis) related to apoptosis compared to control group. Besides higher ROS production, GO also had a higher binding affinity to proteins than PFOS, especially to caspase 8 as revealed by molecular docking. Overall, PFOS induced ROS-p53-caspase apoptosis pathway through multi-gene regulation during single or mixture exposure, while GO single exposure induced apoptosis through tissue damage and ROS-caspase pathway activation and direct docking with caspase 8 to activate the caspase cascade. Under co-exposure, the PFOS-induced apoptotic pathway overshadowed the GO-induced pathway, due to competition for limited active sites on caspases. These findings will contribute to a better understanding of the apoptosis mechanism and ecological risks of nanomaterials and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in marine ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Xu
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Xilin Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Muhammad Junaid
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Manzoor Ahmad
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chunqing Bi
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Wenjing Guo
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Chen'ao Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Shulin Liu
- Key Laboratory for Heavy Metal Pollution Control and Reutilization, School of Environment and Energy, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cao Z, Dai L, Li J, Zhang J, Wang X, Xu A, Du H. Reproductive and germ-cell mutagenic effects of poly-and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to Caenorhabditis elegans after multigenerational exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 954:176224. [PMID: 39270858 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 09/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of globally ubiquitous persistent organic pollutants (POPs). The developmental and reproductive toxicity of PFAS have attracted considerable attention. However, the influence of PFAS exposure on genomic stability of germ cells remains unexplored. In this study, we evaluated long-term reproductive toxicity of environmentally relevant levels of four long-chain PFAS compounds: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA, C8), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA, C9), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA, C10), and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS, C8), and examined their germ-cell mutagenicity in Caenorhabditis elegans. Our findings reveal that multigenerational exposure to PFAS exhibited minor impacts on development and reproduction of worms. Among all tested PFAS, PFNA significantly increased mutation frequencies of progeny by preferentially inducing T:A → C:G substitutions and small indels within repetitive regions. Further analysis of mutation spectra uncovered elevated frequencies of microhomology-mediated deletions and large deletions in PFOA-treated worms, indicating its potential activity in eliciting DNA double-strand breaks. This study provides the first comparative analysis of the genome-wide mutational profile of PFAS compounds, underscoring the importance of assessing germ-cell mutagenic actions of long-chain PFAS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxiao Cao
- School of Environmental Science and Optoelectronic Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, Anhui, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, CAS; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, CAS, Hefei 230031, Anhui, P. R. China
| | - Linglong Dai
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, CAS; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, CAS, Hefei 230031, Anhui, P. R. China; Science Island Branch, Graduate School of USTC, Hefei 230026, Anhui, P. R. China
| | - Jiali Li
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, CAS; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, CAS, Hefei 230031, Anhui, P. R. China; Institutes of Physical Science and Information Technology, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, Anhui, P. R. China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Anhui Medical University, Anhui, No. 81, Mei-Shan Road, Hefei 230032, P. R. China
| | - Xialian Wang
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, CAS; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, CAS, Hefei 230031, Anhui, P. R. China; Science Island Branch, Graduate School of USTC, Hefei 230026, Anhui, P. R. China
| | - An Xu
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, CAS; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, CAS, Hefei 230031, Anhui, P. R. China.
| | - Hua Du
- Key Laboratory of High Magnetic Field and Ion Beam Physical Biology, CAS; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Pollution Control Technology, Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, CAS, Hefei 230031, Anhui, P. R. China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rohonczy J, Forbes MR, Gilroy ÈAM, Carpenter DJ, Young SD, Morrill A, Brinovcar C, De Silva AO, Bartlett AJ, Robinson SA. Effects of perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids on developmental, physiological, and immunological measures in northern leopard frog tadpoles. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 365:143333. [PMID: 39271078 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
The chronic toxicity of short chain perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs), such as perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS) and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS), are relatively understudied despite the increasing detection of these compounds in the environment. We investigated the chronic toxicity and bioconcentration of PFBS and PFHxS using northern leopard frog (Rana [Lithobates] pipiens) tadpoles. We exposed Gosner stage (GS) 25 tadpoles to either PFBS or PFHxS at nominal concentrations of 0.1, 1, 10, 100, and 1000 μg/L until metamorphosis (GS42). We then assessed tadpole growth, development, stress, and immune metrics, and measured fatty acid (FA) composition and PFSA concentrations in liver and whole-body tissues. Tadpole growth and development measures were relatively unaffected by PFSA exposure. However, tadpoles exposed to 1000 μg/L PFBS or PFHxS had significantly increased hepatosomatic indexes (HSI) relative to controls. Further, tadpoles from the 1000 μg/L PFHxS treatment had altered FA profiles relative to controls, with increased total FAs, saturated FAs, monounsaturated FAs, and omega-6 polyunsaturated FAs. In addition, tadpoles from the 1000 μg/L PFHxS treatment had a higher probability of waterborne corticosterone detection. These results suggest that PFBS and PFHxS influence the hepatic health of tadpoles, and that PFHxS may alter lipid metabolism in tadpoles. We also observed a higher probability of tadpoles being phenotypically female after exposure to an environmentally relevant concentration (0.1 μg/L) of PFHxS, suggesting that PFHxS may exert endocrine disrupting effects on tadpoles during early development. The measured bioconcentration factors (BCFs) for both compounds were ≤10 L kg-1 wet weight, suggesting low bioconcentration potential for PFBS and PFHxS in tadpoles. Many of the significant effects observed in this study occurred at concentrations several orders of magnitude above those measured in the environment; however, our work shows effects of PFSAs exposure on amphibians and provides essential information for ecological risk assessments of these compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jillian Rohonczy
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Mark R Forbes
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Ève A M Gilroy
- Water Science and Technology Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, ON, L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - David J Carpenter
- Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Sarah D Young
- Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - André Morrill
- Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Cassandra Brinovcar
- Water Science and Technology Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, ON, L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Amila O De Silva
- Water Science and Technology Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, ON, L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Adrienne J Bartlett
- Water Science and Technology Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Burlington, ON, L7S 1A1, Canada
| | - Stacey A Robinson
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada; Wildlife and Landscape Science Directorate, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H3, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Llewellyn MJ, Griffin EK, Caspar RJ, Timshina AS, Bowden JA, Miller CJ, Baker BB, Baker TR. Identification and quantification of novel per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in a Great Lakes urban-dominated watershed. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 941:173325. [PMID: 38797403 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic organic fluoro-compounds that are oil-, water-, and flame-resistant, making them useful in a wide range of commercial and consumer products, as well as resistant to environmental degradation. To assess the impact of urbanization and wastewater treatment processes, surface water and sediment samples were collected at 27 sites within the Great Lakes in the Lake Huron to Lake Erie corridor (HEC), an international waterway including the highly urbanized Detroit and Rouge Rivers. Samples were analyzed for 92 PFAS via UHPLC-MS/MS. Our previous data in the HEC found the highest amount of PFAS contamination at the Rouge River mouth. In addition to evaluating the input of the Rouge River into the HEC, we evaluated the transport of PFAS into the HEC from other major tributaries. PFAS were detected in both surface water and sediment at all sites in this study, with a total of 10 congeners quantified in all surface water samples and 16 congeners quantified in all sediment samples, indicating ubiquitous contamination. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) were pervasive in the HEC as these two compounds were detected in all sites and matrices, often at concentrations above the US EPA's recommended lifetime interim updated health advisories. Surface water samples contained more perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) than any other congener, with average aqueous PFHxA across all surface water samples exceeding the average concentration previously reported in the Great Lakes. Sediment samples were dominated by PFOS, but novel congeners, notably 3-Perfluoropentyl propanoic acid (FPePA), were also quantified in sediment. The Rouge River and other tributaries contribute significantly to the PFAS burden in the HEC including Lake Erie. Overall, our results indicate the need for expanding toxicological research and risk assessment focused on congeners such as PFHxA and PFAS mixtures, as well as regulation that is tighter at the onset of production and encompasses PFAS as a group at a national level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallory J Llewellyn
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, United States of America.
| | - Emily K Griffin
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, United States of America.
| | - Rachel J Caspar
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, United States of America
| | - Alina S Timshina
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering, University of Florida, United States of America.
| | - John A Bowden
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, United States of America.
| | - Carol J Miller
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Wayne State University, United States of America.
| | - Bridget B Baker
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, United States of America.
| | - Tracie R Baker
- Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, United States of America; Department of Environmental and Global Health, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lasters R, Groffen T, Eens M, Bervoets L. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in homegrown crops: Accumulation and human risk assessment. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143208. [PMID: 39214403 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143208] [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: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 08/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Homegrown crops can present a significant exposure source of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to humans. Field studies studying PFAS accumulation in multiple vegetable food categories and examining the potential influence of soil characteristics on vegetable bioavailability under realistic exposure conditions are very scarce. Crop PFAS accumulation depends on a complex combination of factors. The physicochemical differences among the numerous PFAS makes risk assessment very challenging. Thus, simplification of this complexity into key factors that govern crop PFAS accumulation is critical. This study analyzed 29 targeted legacy, precursor and emerging PFAS in the vertical soil profile (0-45 cm depth), rainwater and edible crop parts of 88 private gardens, at different distances from a major fluorochemical plant. Gardens closer to the plant site showed higher soil concentrations which could be linked with historical and recent industrial emissions. Most compounds showed little variation along the soil depth profile, regardless of the distance from the plant site, which could be due to gardening practices. Annual crops consistently accumulated higher sum PFAS concentrations than perennials. Highest concentrations were observed in vegetables, followed by fruits and walnuts. Single soil-crop relationships were weak, which indicated that other factors (e.g., porewater) may be better measures of bioavailability in homegrown crop accumulation. Regression models, which additionally considered soil characteristics showed limited predictive power (all R2 ≤ 35%), possibly due to low variability in crop concentrations. Human intake estimations revealed that the PFAS exposure risk via crop consumption was similar nearby and remotely from the plant site, although the contribution to the overall dietary exposure can be relatively large. The tolerable weekly intake was frequently exceeded with respect to fruit and vegetable consumption, thus potential health risks cannot be ruled out.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robin Lasters
- ECOSPHERE, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020, Antwerp, Belgium; Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Thimo Groffen
- ECOSPHERE, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020, Antwerp, Belgium; Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Marcel Eens
- Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk, Belgium.
| | - Lieven Bervoets
- ECOSPHERE, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020, Antwerp, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ezeorba TPC, Okeke ES, Nwankwo CE, Emencheta SC, Enochoghene AE, Okeke VC, Ozougwu VEO. Emerging eco-friendly technologies for remediation of Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in water and wastewater: A pathway to environmental sustainability. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143168. [PMID: 39181463 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143168] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are rampant, toxic contaminants from anthropogenic sources, called forever chemicals for their recalcitrance. Although banned in several parts of the world for public health implications, including liver, kidney, and testicular diseases, PFAS are abundant in water sources due to easy dispersion. With chemical properties resulting from strong hydrophobic bonds, they defile many physicochemical removal methods. Though adsorption processes such as granular activated carbon (GAC) are widely used, they are marred by several limitations, including cost and secondary contamination. Thus, eco-friendly methods involving a synergy of the removal principles have been preferred for ease of use, cost-effectiveness, and near-zero effect on the environment. We present novel eco-friendly methods as the solution to PFAS remediation towards environmental sustainability. Current eco-friendly methods of PFAS removal from water sources, including electrocoagulation, membrane/filtration, adsorption, and phytoremediation methods, were highlighted, although with limitations. Novel eco-friendly methods such as microbial fuel cells, photoelectrical cells, and plasma treatment offer solutions to PFAS remediation and are quite efficient in terms of cost, result, and environmental sustainability. Overall, the successful integration of eco-friendly techniques in a seamless manner ensures the desired result. We also present a balanced position on the ecosystem impact of these ecofriendly methods, noting the successes towards environmental sustainability while exposing the gaps for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Prince Chidike Ezeorba
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 410001, Nigeria; Department of Environmental Health and Risk Management, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, United Kingdom
| | - Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 410001, Nigeria; Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 410001, Nigeria; Institute of Environmental Health and Ecological Security, School of Emergency Management, School of the Environment and Safety, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd., 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Chidiebele Emmanuel Nwankwo
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 410001, Nigeria; School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Rd., 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Stephen Chijioke Emencheta
- Deparment of Pharmaceutical Microbiology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 410001, Nigeria
| | | | - Veronica Chisom Okeke
- Deparment of Pharmaceutical Microbiology & Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 410001, Nigeria
| | - Vincent E O Ozougwu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, 410001, Nigeria.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mumberg T, Ahrens L, Wanner P. Managed aquifer recharge as a potential pathway of contaminants of emerging concern into groundwater systems - A systematic review. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 364:143030. [PMID: 39121959 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143030] [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: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Groundwater is an often-overlooked resource, while its declining quantity and quality is of global concern. To protect and ensure stable quantity and quality of groundwater systems used as drinking water supplies, a common method is to artificially recharge these groundwater supplies with surface water, a process called managed aquifer recharge (MAR), that has been used globally for decades. However, surface waters used for MAR often contain elevated concentrations of anthropogenic chemicals of emerging concern (CECs), such as plastics, pesticides, pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). When infiltrating this surface water, MAR can thus act as a shortcut for CECs into groundwater systems and eventually drinking water supplies. Especially PFAS are an example of very persistent contaminants showing atypical transport patterns during MAR and thus posing a risk for ground- and drinking water contamination. This systematic review addresses the transport process of CECs through MAR systems by looking at (1) common CEC concentrations in surface waters, (2) factors affecting CEC transport and possible retention during MAR, such as sorption and other physio-chemical mechanisms of CECs, biological and chemical decomposition, or hydrogeological properties of the MAR system, and (3) key contaminants leaching through the MAR systems as well as possible treatment options to improve the retention of CECs during MAR. Since we are facing increasing needs for high quality drinking water, lower CEC drinking water guidelines as well as an increasing number of identified CECs in surface waters, we conclude with a series of recommendations and future research directions to address these issues. Those include the need for regular monitoring programs specifically addressing CECs and especially not yet regulated, (very) persistent and (very) mobile contaminants, such as PFAS, as well as redesigned MAR systems to ensure stable ground- and drinking water quantity and quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tabea Mumberg
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 7, Gothenburg, 413 90, Sweden.
| | - Lutz Ahrens
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7050, 75007, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Philipp Wanner
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Medicinaregatan 7, Gothenburg, 413 90, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Groffen T, Buytaert J, Prinsen E, Bervoets L, Eens M. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Accumulation, Reproductive Impairment, and Associations with Nestling Body Condition in Great ( Parus major)- and Blue Tits ( Cyanistes caeruleus) Living near a Hotspot in Belgium. TOXICS 2024; 12:636. [PMID: 39330564 PMCID: PMC11435652 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12090636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
Due to the limited number of field studies investigating associations between environmentally relevant per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) mixtures and reproductive impairment, there is uncertainty as to whether birds are affected by PFAS pollution, whether species differ in sensitivity to PFAS, and whether the observed reproductive impairment is caused by PFAS or rather due to other potential confounding variables. Therefore, we investigated PFAS concentrations in eggs and blood plasma of great tit (Parus major) and blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) nestlings near a PFAS hotspot in Belgium, reproductive impairment, and associations between the accumulated levels and nestling body condition. In total, 29 eggs and 22 blood plasma samples of great tit clutches, and 10 egg and 10 blood plasma samples of blue tit clutches, were collected. Despite more types of PFAS being detected in eggs compared to plasma, only minor differences in profiles were observed between species. On the other hand, tissue-specific differences were more pronounced and likely reflect a combination of maternal transfer and dietary exposure post-hatching. Despite the high concentrations detected in both species, limited reproductive impairment was observed. Our results support previous findings that great tits and blue tits may not be very susceptible to PFAS pollution and provide evidence that other factors, including ecological stoichiometry, may be more important in explaining inter-species variation in PFAS accumulation and reproductive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thimo Groffen
- ECOSPHERE, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium; (J.B.); (L.B.)
- Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
| | - Jodie Buytaert
- ECOSPHERE, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium; (J.B.); (L.B.)
| | - Els Prinsen
- Integrated Molecular Plant Physiology Research, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium;
| | - Lieven Bervoets
- ECOSPHERE, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium; (J.B.); (L.B.)
| | - Marcel Eens
- Behavioural Ecology and Ecophysiology Group, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium;
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Molé RA, Velosa AC, Carey GR, Liu X, Li G, Fan D, Danko A, Lowry GV. Groundwater solutes influence the adsorption of short-chain perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAA) to colloidal activated carbon and impact performance for in situ groundwater remediation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 474:134746. [PMID: 38850952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Subsurface injection of colloidal activated carbon (CAC) is an in situ remediation strategy for perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAA), but the influence of groundwater solutes on longevity is uncertain, particularly for short-chain PFAA. We quantify the impact of inorganic anions, dissolved organic matter (DOM), and stabilizing polymer on PFAA adsorption to a commercial CAC. Surface characterization supported PFAA chain-length dependent adsorption results and mechanisms are provided. Inorganic anions decreased adsorption for short-chain PFAA (<7 perfluorinated carbons) due to competitive effects, while long-chain PFAA (≥ 7 perfluorinated carbons) were less impacted. DOM decreased adsorption of all PFAA in a chain-length dependent manner. High DOM concentrations (10 mg/L, ∼5 mg OC/L) decreased PFOA adsorption by a factor of 2, PFPeA by one order of magnitude, and completely hindered PFBA adsorption. High MW DOM has less impact on short-chain PFAA than low MW DOM, possibly due to differences in the ability to access CAC micropores. Low DOM concentrations (1 mg/L, ∼0.5 mg OC/L) did not impact adsorption. CMC (90 kDa average MW) had negligible impact on PFAA adsorption likely due to minimal CAC surface coverage. Longevity modeling demonstrated that groundwater solutes limit the capacity for PFAA in a CAC barrier, particularly for short-chain PFAA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Molé
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Adriana C Velosa
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Grant R Carey
- Porewater Solutions, 2958 Barlow Crescent, Ottawa, Ontario K0A 1T0, Canada
| | - Xitong Liu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Guangbin Li
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Dimin Fan
- Geosyntec Consultants, 65 North Raymond Ave. Suite 200, Pasadena, CA 91103, USA
| | - Anthony Danko
- Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center, Port Hueneme, CA, 93043, USA
| | - Gregory V Lowry
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Arredondo Eve A, Tunc E, Mehta D, Yoo JY, Yilmaz HE, Emren SV, Akçay FA, Madak Erdogan Z. PFAS and their association with the increased risk of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. Toxicol Sci 2024; 200:312-323. [PMID: 38758093 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfae065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the major causes of death globally. In addition to traditional risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyles (smoking, obesity, sedentary) and genetics, common environmental exposures, including persistent environmental contaminants, may also influence CVD risk. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a class of highly fluorinated chemicals used in household consumer and industrial products known to persist in our environment for years, causing health concerns that are now linked to endocrine disruptions and related outcomes in women, including interference of the cardiovascular and reproductive systems. In postmenopausal women, higher levels of PFAS are observed than in premenopausal women due to the cessation of menstruation, which is crucial for PFAS excretion. Because of these findings, we explored the association between perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), and perfluorobutanesulfonic acid in postmenopausal women from our previously established CVD study. We used liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, supported by machine learning approaches, and the detection and quantification of serum metabolites and proteins. Here, we show that PFOS can be a good predictor of coronary artery disease, whereas PFOA can be an intermediate predictor of coronary microvascular disease. We also found that the PFAS levels in our study are significantly associated with inflammation-related proteins. Our findings may provide new insight into the potential mechanisms underlying the PFAS-induced risk of CVDs in this population. This study shows that exposure to PFOA and PFOS is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. PFOS and PFOA levels correlate with amino acids and proteins related to inflammation. These circulating biomarkers contribute to the etiology of CVD and potentially implicate a mechanistic relationship between PFAS exposure and increased risk of cardiovascular events in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Arredondo Eve
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Elif Tunc
- Research and Training Hospital, Katip Celebi University, Izmir, 35310, Turkey
| | - Dhruv Mehta
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Jin Young Yoo
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Huriye Erbak Yilmaz
- Research and Training Hospital, Katip Celebi University, Izmir, 35310, Turkey
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Balcova, Izmir, 35340, Turkey
| | - Sadık Volkan Emren
- Research and Training Hospital, Katip Celebi University, Izmir, 35310, Turkey
| | | | - Zeynep Madak Erdogan
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Britton KN, Judson RS, Hill BN, Jarema KA, Olin JK, Knapp BR, Lowery M, Feshuk M, Brown J, Padilla S. Using Zebrafish to Screen Developmental Toxicity of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). TOXICS 2024; 12:501. [PMID: 39058153 PMCID: PMC11281043 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12070501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are found in many consumer and industrial products. While some PFAS, notably perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), are developmentally toxic in mammals, the vast majority of PFAS have not been evaluated for developmental toxicity potential. A concentration-response study of 182 unique PFAS chemicals using the zebrafish medium-throughput, developmental vertebrate toxicity assay was conducted to investigate chemical structural identifiers for toxicity. Embryos were exposed to each PFAS compound (≤100 μM) beginning on the day of fertilization. At 6 days post-fertilization (dpf), two independent observers graded developmental landmarks for each larva (e.g., mortality, hatching, swim bladder inflation, edema, abnormal spine/tail, or craniofacial structure). Thirty percent of the PFAS were developmentally toxic, but there was no enrichment of any OECD structural category. PFOS was developmentally toxic (benchmark concentration [BMC] = 7.48 μM); however, other chemicals were more potent: perfluorooctanesulfonamide (PFOSA), N-methylperfluorooctane sulfonamide (N-MeFOSA), ((perfluorooctyl)ethyl)phosphonic acid, perfluoro-3,6,9-trioxatridecanoic acid, and perfluorohexane sulfonamide. The developmental toxicity profile for these more potent PFAS is largely unexplored in mammals and other species. Based on these zebrafish developmental toxicity results, additional screening may be warranted to understand the toxicity profile of these chemicals in other species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katy N. Britton
- Oak Ridge Associated Universities Research Participation Program Hosted by EPA, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA
| | - Richard S. Judson
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Computational Toxicology and Bioinformatics Branch, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA;
| | - Bridgett N. Hill
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Research Participation Program Hosted by EPA, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (B.N.H.); (B.R.K.)
| | - Kimberly A. Jarema
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Immediate Office, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA;
| | - Jeanene K. Olin
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (J.K.O.); (M.L.)
| | - Bridget R. Knapp
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Research Participation Program Hosted by EPA, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (B.N.H.); (B.R.K.)
| | - Morgan Lowery
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (J.K.O.); (M.L.)
| | - Madison Feshuk
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Scientific Computing and Data Curation Division, Data Extraction and Quality Evaluation Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA;
| | - Jason Brown
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Scientific Computing and Data Curation Division, Application Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA;
| | - Stephanie Padilla
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Rapid Assay Development Branch, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA; (J.K.O.); (M.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yu L, Liu X, Hua Z, Chu K. Intense Turbulent Bursts Promote the Release of Perfluoroalkyl Acids from Sediments at High Flow Velocity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:11737-11747. [PMID: 38889003 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c03885] [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: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Despite frequent detection of high levels of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in sediments, research on the environmental fate of PFAAs in sediments, particularly under hydrodynamic conditions, is rather limited, challenging effective management of PFAA loadings. Therefore, this study investigated the release and transport of 15 PFAAs in sediments under environmentally relevant flow velocities using recirculating flumes and revealed the underlying release mechanisms by identifying related momentum transfer. An increased velocity enhanced the release magnitude of total PFAAs by a factor of 3.09. The release capacity of short-chain PFAAs was notably higher than that of long-chain PFAAs, and this pattern was further amplified by flow velocity. Pore-water drainage was the major pathway for PFAA release, with the release amount predominantly determined by flow velocity-induced release intensity and depth, as well as affected by the perfluorocarbon chain length and sediment size. The weak anion exchanger-diffusion gradients in the thin-film technique confirmed that the release depth of PFAAs increased with flow velocity. Quadrant analysis revealed that the rise in the frequency and intensity of turbulent bursts driven by sweeps and ejections at high flow velocity was the underlying cause of the increased release magnitude and depth of PFAAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
- Yangtze Institute of Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
- Yangtze Institute of Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Zulin Hua
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
- Yangtze Institute of Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Kejian Chu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
- Yangtze Institute of Conservation and Development, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Tessmann JW, Deng P, Durham J, Li C, Banerjee M, Wang Q, Goettl RA, He D, Wang C, Lee EY, Evers BM, Hennig B, Zaytseva YY. Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid exposure leads to downregulation of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 expression and upregulation of markers associated with intestinal carcinogenesis in mouse intestinal tissues. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 359:142332. [PMID: 38754493 PMCID: PMC11157449 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a widely recognized environment pollutant known for its high bioaccumulation potential and a long elimination half-life. Several studies have shown that PFOS can alter multiple biological pathways and negatively affect human health. Considering the direct exposure to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to environmental pollutants, PFOS can potentially disrupt intestinal homeostasis. However, there is limited knowledge about the effect of PFOS exposure on normal intestinal tissues, and its contribution to GI-associated diseases remains to be determined. In this study, we examined the effect of PFOS exposure on the gene expression profile of intestinal tissues of C57BL/6 mice using RNAseq analysis. We found that PFOS exposure in drinking water significantly downregulates mitochondrial 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 2 (HMGCS2), a rate-limiting ketogenic enzyme, in intestinal tissues of mice. We found that diets containing the soluble fibers inulin and pectin, which are known to be protective against PFOS exposure, were ineffective in reversing the downregulation of HMGCS2 expression in vivo. Analysis of intestinal tissues also demonstrated that PFOS exposure leads to upregulation of proteins implicated in colorectal carcinogenesis, including β-catenin, c-MYC, mTOR and FASN. Consistent with the in vivo results, PFOS exposure leads to downregulation of HMGCS2 in mouse and human normal intestinal organoids in vitro. Furthermore, we show that shRNA-mediated knockdown of HMGCS2 in a human normal intestinal cell line resulted in increased cell proliferation and upregulation of key proliferation-associated proteins such as cyclin D, survivin, ERK1/2 and AKT, along with an increase in lipid accumulation. In summary, our results suggest that PFOS exposure may contribute to pathological changes in normal intestinal cells via downregulation of HMGCS2 expression and upregulation of pro-carcinogenic signaling pathways that may increase the risk of colorectal cancer development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josiane Weber Tessmann
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Pan Deng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Jerika Durham
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Chang Li
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Moumita Banerjee
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Qingding Wang
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Ryan A Goettl
- Markey Cancer Center Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource Facility, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Daheng He
- Markey Cancer Center Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource Facility, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Chi Wang
- Markey Cancer Center Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource Facility, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Eun Y Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - B Mark Evers
- Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Bernhard Hennig
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| | - Yekaterina Y Zaytseva
- Department of Toxicology and Cancer Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA; Markey Cancer Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhao X, Wang B, Song X, He L, Zhang W, Qian Y, Mu X, Qiu J. Synergistic developmental effects of zebrafish exposed to combined perfluorooctanoic acid and atrazine. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 358:142080. [PMID: 38642773 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142080] [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: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and atrazine are two endocrine disruptors that are widely found in waters. Negative effects of PFOA and atrazine have been studied individually, but few data have focused on their combined effects. Here, zebrafish embryos were used as model to investigate the combined toxicity of PFOA and atrazine. The acute toxicity of atrazine (11.9 mg/L) to zebrafish embryos was much higher than that of perfluorooctanoic acid (224.6 mg/L) as shown by the 120h-LC50 value. Developmental effects, including delayed yolk sac absorption, spinal curvature, and liver abnormalities, were observed in both one- and two-component exposures. Notably, the rate of embryonic malformations in the co-exposure group was more than twice as high as that of single component exposure in the concentration range of 1/8-1/2 EC50, which indicated a synergistic effect of the binary mixture. The synergistic effect of PFOA-atrazine was further validated by combinatorial index (CI) modeling. In addition, changes of amino acid metabolites, reactive oxygen species and superoxide dismutase indicated that oxidative stress might be the main pathway for enhanced toxicity under co-exposure condition. Overall, co-exposure of PFOA and atrazine resulted in stronger developmental effects and more complicated amino acid metabolic response toward zebrafish, compared with single component exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Zhao
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Beinan Wang
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiao Song
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Linjuan He
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yongzhong Qian
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiyan Mu
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Jing Qiu
- Institute of Quality Standard and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Agri-food Safety and Quality, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, 100081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Qin X, Zhuang Y, Shi B. PFAS promotes disinfection byproduct formation through triggering particle-bound organic matter release in drinking water pipes. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 254:121339. [PMID: 38432003 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121339] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Loose deposit particles in drinking water distribution system commonly exist as mixtures of metal oxides, organic materials, bacteria, and extracellular secretions. In addition to their turbidity-causing effects, the hazards of such particles in drinking water are rarely recognized. In this study, we found that trace per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) could dramatically promote the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) by triggering the release of particle-bound organic matter. Carboxylic PFASs have a greater ability to increase chloroacetic acid than sulfonic PFASs, and PFASs with longer chains have a greater ability to increase trichloromethane release than shorter-chain PFASs. Characterization by organic carbon and organic nitrogen detectors and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry revealed that the released organic matter was mainly composed of proteins, carbohydrates, lignin, and condensed aromatic structures, which are the main precursors for the formation of DBPs, particularly highly toxic aromatic DBPs. After the release of organic matter, the particles exhibit a decrease in surface functional groups, an increase in surface roughness, and a decrease in particle size. The findings provide new insights into the risks of loose deposits and PFASs in drinking water, not only on PFASs per se but also on its effect of increasing toxic DBPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Qin
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuan Zhuang
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Baoyou Shi
- Key Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Gasparini C, Iori S, Pietropoli E, Bonato M, Giantin M, Barbarossa A, Bardhi A, Pilastro A, Dacasto M, Pauletto M. Sub-acute exposure of male guppies (Poecilia reticulata) to environmentally relevant concentrations of PFOA and GenX induces significant changes in the testis transcriptome and reproductive traits. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 187:108703. [PMID: 38705092 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108703] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are frequently detected in the environment and are linked to adverse reproductive health outcomes in humans. Although legacy PFAS have been phased out due to their toxicity, alternative PFAS are increasingly used despite the fact that information on their toxic effects on reproductive traits is particularly scarce. Here, we exposed male guppies (Poecilia reticulata) for a short period (21 days) to an environmentally realistic concentration (1 ppb) of PFOA, a legacy PFAS, and its replacement compound, GenX, to assess their impact on reproductive traits and gene expression. Exposure to PFAS did not impair survival but instead caused sublethal effects. Overall, PFAS exposure caused changes in male sexual behaviour and had detrimental effects on sperm motility. Sublethal variations were also seen at the transcriptional level, with the modulation of genes involved in immune regulation, spermatogenesis, and oxidative stress. We also observed bioaccumulation of PFAS, which was higher for PFOA than for GenX. Our results offer a comprehensive comparison of these two PFAS and shed light on the toxicity of a newly emerging alternative to legacy PFAS. It is therefore evident that even at low concentrations and with short exposure, PFAS can have subtle yet significant effects on behaviour, fertility, and immunity. These findings underscore the potential ramifications of pollution under natural conditions and their impact on fish populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Gasparini
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, I-35131, Padova, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, I-90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - S Iori
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - E Pietropoli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - M Bonato
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, I-35131, Padova, Italy
| | - M Giantin
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - A Barbarossa
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra 50, I-40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia (Bologna), Italy; Health Sciences and Technologies-Interdepartmental Centre for Industrial Research (CIRI-SDV), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, I-40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - A Bardhi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra 50, I-40064 Ozzano dell'Emilia (Bologna), Italy
| | - A Pilastro
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, I-35131, Padova, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, Piazza Marina 61, I-90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - M Dacasto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - M Pauletto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Agripolis Legnaro (Padova), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Hu M, Scott C. Toward the development of a molecular toolkit for the microbial remediation of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0015724. [PMID: 38477530 PMCID: PMC11022551 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00157-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly fluorinated synthetic organic compounds that have been used extensively in various industries owing to their unique properties. The PFAS family encompasses diverse classes, with only a fraction being commercially relevant. These substances are found in the environment, including in water sources, soil, and wildlife, leading to human exposure and fueling concerns about potential human health impacts. Although PFAS degradation is challenging, biodegradation offers a promising, eco-friendly solution. Biodegradation has been effective for a variety of organic contaminants but is yet to be successful for PFAS due to a paucity of identified microbial species capable of transforming these compounds. Recent studies have investigated PFAS biotransformation and fluoride release; however, the number of specific microorganisms and enzymes with demonstrable activity with PFAS remains limited. This review discusses enzymes that could be used in PFAS metabolism, including haloacid dehalogenases, reductive dehalogenases, cytochromes P450, alkane and butane monooxygenases, peroxidases, laccases, desulfonases, and the mechanisms of microbial resistance to intracellular fluoride. Finally, we emphasize the potential of enzyme and microbial engineering to advance PFAS degradation strategies and provide insights for future research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miao Hu
- CSIRO Environment, Black Mountain Science and Innovation Park, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Colin Scott
- CSIRO Environment, Black Mountain Science and Innovation Park, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen X, Wang C, Gui W, Guo Y, Zhou X, Zhao Y, Dai J. Time-course transcriptome analysis discloses PFDMO2OA (C8 HFPO-TA)-induced developmental malformations and cardiovascular toxicities in zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 347:123729. [PMID: 38462201 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123729] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
PFDMO2OA (C8 HFPO-TA), a novel substitute for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), has been frequently detected in surface waters. However, information on its toxicity remains scarce. In the present study, zebrafish embryos were exposed to varying concentrations of PFDMO2OA, ranging from 80 to 800 mg/L, until 120 h post-fertilization (hpf) to explore its potential developmental toxicities. The LC50 value for mortality was 505.9 mg/L, comparable to that of PFOA (over 500 mg/L), suggesting a lack of safety of PFDMO2OA compared to PFOA. At 120 hpf, PFDMO2OA exposure led to various malformations in embryos, including uninflated swim bladder, yolk sac oedema, spinal deformation, and pigmentation changes, with pericardial oedema being prominent. Analysis using O-dianisidine stain indicated a decline in erythrocytes over time. Transcriptome analysis further revealed the cardiovascular toxicity caused by PFDMO2OA at the molecular level. Time-course differential analysis pointed to the apoptosis dependent on disrupted mitochondrial function as a significant contributor to erythrocyte disappearance, as confirmed by the TUNEL stain. Therefore, the present findings suggest that PFDMO2OA induces developmental malformations and cardiovascular toxicities in zebrafish embryos, demonstrating a toxic potency comparable to that of PFOA. The results further highlight the significance of evaluating the health risks associated with PFDMO2OA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Congcong Wang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Wanying Gui
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Yong Guo
- Key Laboratory of Organofluorine Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuming Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yanbin Zhao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Jiayin Dai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Health Impact Assessment of Emerging Contaminants, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Meng J, Hu K, Wang S, Wang Y, Chen Z, Gao C, Mao D. A framework for risk assessment of groundwater contamination integrating hydrochemical, hydrogeological, and electrical resistivity tomography method. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:28105-28123. [PMID: 38528218 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33030-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Groundwater contamination have been widely concerned. To reliably conduct risk assessment, it is essential to accurately delineate the contaminant distribution and hydrogeological condition. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) has become a powerful tool because of its high sensitivity to hydrochemical parameters, as well as its advantages of non-invasiveness, spatial continuity, and cost-effectiveness. However, it is still difficult to integrate hydrochemical, hydrogeological, and ERT datasets for risk assessment. In this study, we develop a general framework for risk assessment by sequentially jointing hydrochemical, hydrogeological, and ERT surveys, while establishing petrophysical relationships among these data. This framework can be used in groundwater-contaminated site and help to delineate the distribution of contaminants. In this study, it was applied to a nitrogen-contaminated site where field ERT survey and borehole information provided valuable measurement data for validating the consistency of contamination and hydrogeological condition. Risk assessment was conducted based on the refined results by the establishment of relationship between conductivity and contaminants concentration withR 2 > 0.84 . The contamination source was identified and the transport direction was predicted with the good agreement ofR 2 = 0.965 between simulated and observed groundwater head, which can help to propose measures for anti-seepage and monitoring. This study thus enhances the reliability of risk assessment and prediction through a thought-provoking innovation in the realm of groundwater environmental assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Meng
- School of Civil Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, 250061, China
| | - Kaiyou Hu
- Kunming Engineering Corporation Limited, Kunming, 650051, China
| | - Shaowei Wang
- School of Civil Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, 250061, China
| | - Yaxun Wang
- School of Civil Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, 250061, China
| | - Zifang Chen
- Shandong Institute of Eco-Environmental Planning, Jinan, 250101, China
| | - Cuiling Gao
- Shandong Institute for Production Quality Inspection, Jinan, 250102, China
| | - Deqiang Mao
- School of Civil Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, 250061, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Stroski KM, Roelke DL, Kieley CM, Park R, Campbell KL, Klobusnik NH, Walker JR, Cagle SE, Labonté JM, Brooks BW. What, How, When, and Where: Spatiotemporal Water Quality Hazards of Cyanotoxins in Subtropical Eutrophic Reservoirs. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:1473-1483. [PMID: 38205949 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06798] [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: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Though toxins produced during harmful blooms of cyanobacteria present diverse risks to public health and the environment, surface water quality surveillance of cyanobacterial toxins is inconsistent, spatiotemporally limited, and routinely relies on ELISA kits to estimate total microcystins (MCs) in surface waters. Here, we employed liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to examine common cyanotoxins, including five microcystins, three anatoxins, nodularin, cylindrospermopsin, and saxitoxin in 20 subtropical reservoirs spatially distributed across a pronounced annual rainfall gradient. Probabilistic environmental hazard analyses identified whether water quality values for cyanotoxins were exceeded and if these exceedances varied spatiotemporally. MC-LR was the most common congener detected, but it was not consistently observed with other toxins, including MC-YR, which was detected at the highest concentrations during spring with many observations above the California human recreation guideline (800 ng/L). Cylindrospermopsin was also quantitated in 40% of eutrophic reservoirs; these detections did not exceed a US Environmental Protection Agency swimming/advisory level (15,000 ng/L). Our observations have implications for routine water quality monitoring practices, which traditionally use ELISA kits to estimate MC levels and often limit collection of surface samples during summer months near reservoir impoundments, and further indicate that spatiotemporal surveillance efforts are necessary to understand cyanotoxins risks when harmful cyanobacteria blooms occur throughout the year.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Stroski
- Department of Environmental Science, Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research, Baylor University, Waco, Texas 76798, United States
| | - Daniel L Roelke
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - Crista M Kieley
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - Royoung Park
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - Kathryn L Campbell
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - N Hagen Klobusnik
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - Jordan R Walker
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - Sierra E Cagle
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - Jessica M Labonté
- Department of Marine Biology, Texas A&M University Galveston, Galveston, Texas 77554, United States
| | - Bryan W Brooks
- Department of Environmental Science, Center for Reservoir and Aquatic Systems Research, Baylor University, Waco, Texas 76798, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ge Y, Wang Z, Chen X, Wang W, Liu Z, Sun H, Zhang L. Comparative Toxicological Effects of Perfluorooctane Sulfonate and Its Alternative 6:2 Chlorinated Polyfluorinated Ether Sulfonate on Earthworms. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:170-181. [PMID: 37861387 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
High levels of 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (F-53B), which is a substitute for perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), are detected in various environmental matrices, wildlife, and humans. Chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate has received increased attention due to its potential risk to ecosystems. However, its toxicity in the soil organisms remains unclear. In the present study, a comparative investigation was conducted on the toxicities of 6:2 Chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (F-53B) and PFOS to the earthworm Eisenia. fetida. F-53B was significantly more acutely toxic to earthworms than PFOS, with median lethal concentrations of 1.43 and 1.83 mmol/kg dry soil (~816 and 984 mg/kg dry soil), respectively. Although both F-53B and PFOS, at 0.4 mmol/kg dry soil (=228 and 215 mg/kg dry soil) caused oxidative stress in earthworms, as evidenced by increased superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activities as well as malondialdehyde level, the stress caused by F-53B was higher than that caused by PFOS. In transcriptomic and metabolomic studies, negative effects of PFOS and F-53B were observed on several metabolic processes in earthworms, including protein digestion and amino acid absorption, lipid metabolism, and the immune response. Compared with PFOS, F-53B exhibited a weaker disruption of lipid metabolism, comparable potency for toxicity to the immune response, and a stronger potency in extracellular matrix destruction along with apoptosis and ferroptosis induction. Hence, our data suggest that F-53B is more toxic than PFOS to earthworms. The findings provide some new insights into the potential toxicity of F-53B to soil organisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:170-181. © 2023 SETAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanhui Ge
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhan Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuelu Chen
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Wen Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenying Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongwen Sun
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lianying Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Gonkowski S, Martín J, Kortas A, Aparicio I, Santos JL, Alonso E, Sobiech P, Rytel L. Assessment of perfluoroalkyl substances concentration levels in wild bat guano samples. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22707. [PMID: 38123620 PMCID: PMC10733414 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49638-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are substances commonly used in the production of various everyday objects, including among others kitchen dishes, cosmetics, or clothes. They penetrate to the environment and living organisms causing disturbances in the functioning of many internal organs and systems. Due to environmental pollution, wildlife is also exposed to PFASs, but the knowledge about this issue is rather limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the exposure of wild greater mouse-eared bats (Myotis myotis), living in Poland, to six selected PFASs: five perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (perfluorobutanoic acid-PFBuA, perfluoropentanoic acid-PFPeA, perfluorohexanoic acid-PFHxA, perfluoroheptanoic acid-PFHpA, perfluorooctanoic acid-PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) through the analysis of guano samples with liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) method. To our knowledge this is the first study concerning the PFASs levels in bats, as well as using guano samples to evaluate the exposure of wild mammals to these substances. A total of 40 guano samples were collected from 4 bats summer (nursery) colonies located in various parts of Poland. The presence of PFASs mentioned were detected in all colonies studied, and concentration levels of these substances were sampling dependent. The highest concentration levels were observed in the case of PFPeA [1.34 and 3060 ng/g dry weight (dw)] and PFHxA (8.30-314 ng/g dw). This study confirms the exposure of wild bats to PFASs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Slawomir Gonkowski
- Department of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Street Oczapowskiego 14, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Julia Martín
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Universidad de Sevilla, C/Virgen de África, 7, 41011, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Annemarie Kortas
- Department of Internal Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Ul. Oczapowskiego 14, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Irene Aparicio
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Universidad de Sevilla, C/Virgen de África, 7, 41011, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Juan Luis Santos
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Universidad de Sevilla, C/Virgen de África, 7, 41011, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Esteban Alonso
- Departamento de Química Analítica, Universidad de Sevilla, C/Virgen de África, 7, 41011, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Przemysław Sobiech
- Department of Internal Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Ul. Oczapowskiego 14, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Liliana Rytel
- Department of Internal Diseases with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Ul. Oczapowskiego 14, 10-719, Olsztyn, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Qin C, Zhang RH, Li Z, Zhao HM, Li YW, Feng NX, Li H, Cai QY, Hu X, Gao Y, Xiang L, Mo CH, Xing B. Insights into the enzymatic degradation of DNA expedited by typical perfluoroalkyl acids. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (ONLINE) 2023; 2:278-286. [PMID: 38435362 PMCID: PMC10902504 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are considered forever chemicals, gaining increasing attention for their hazardous impacts. However, the ecological effects of PFAAs remain unclear. Environmental DNA (eDNA), as the environmental gene pool, is often collected for evaluating the ecotoxicological effects of pollutants. In this study, we found that all PFAAs investigated, including perfluorohexanoic acid, perfluorooctanoic acid, perfluorononanoic acid, and perfluorooctane sulfonate, even at low concentrations (0.02 and 0.05 mg/L), expedited the enzymatic degradation of DNA in a nonlinear dose-effect relationship, with DNA degradation fragment sizes being lower than 1,000 bp and 200 bp after 15 and 30 min of degradation, respectively. This phenomenon was attributed to the binding interaction between PFAAs and AT bases in DNA via groove binding. van der Waals force (especially dispersion force) and hydrogen bonding are the main binding forces. DNA binding with PFAAs led to decreased base stacking and right-handed helicity, resulting in loose DNA structure exposing more digestion sites for degrading enzymes, and accelerating the enzymatic degradation of DNA. The global ecological risk evaluation results indicated that PFAA contamination could cause medium and high molecular ecological risk in 497 samples from 11 contamination-hot countries (such as the USA, Canada, and China). The findings of this study show new insights into the influence of PFAAs on the environmental fates of biomacromolecules and reveal the hidden molecular ecological effects of PFAAs in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Qin
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Run-Hao Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zekai Li
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Hai-Ming Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yan-Wen Li
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Nai-Xian Feng
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Hui Li
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Quan-Ying Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaojie Hu
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yanzheng Gao
- Institute of Organic Contaminant Control and Soil Remediation, College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Lei Xiang
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Ce-Hui Mo
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center for Environment Pollution Control and Remediation Materials, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xingchun J, Wei Z, Jing P, Guohui L, Dian C, Zhaohe Z, Yiran Z. The occurrence, spatial distribution, and well-depth dependence of PFASs in groundwater from a reclaimed water irrigation area. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 901:165904. [PMID: 37527708 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
With the growing development of modern agriculture and industry, groundwater is facing more and more complex contaminants. One such contaminant is per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), which pose a potential risk to human health, particularly for those who rely on groundwater as their primary source of drinking water. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive investigation on the occurrence, spatial distribution, and source apportionment of PFASs in shallow (<60 m) and deep (>80 m) groundwater samples from a reclaimed water irrigation area in Beijing's suburbs. Our results showed that the average total PFAS concentration (∑10PFAS) for all samples was 10.55 ± 7.77 ng/L, ranging from 1.05 to 34.28 ng/L. The dominant congeners were PFBA, PFOA, and PFBS. No significant linear relationship was observed between PFAS concentrations and the well depth. However, the averaged ΣPFASs in groundwater were highest in the uppermost layer and declined sharply to a few ng/L in the deep aquifer below 80 m. PFASs showed elevated concentration in shallow aquifers in 9 out of 11 paired wells, indicating an overall descending trend of PFASs with increasing aquifer depth. The spatial distribution of PFASs was highly heterogeneous and showed different patterns in shallow and deep groundwater, which may be related to the complicated attenuation behavior of PFAS compounds when they transport and diffuse through overlapping aquifer layers. The influence of the landfill on groundwater PFASs was most pronounced within a 5 km radius. Source apportionment results indicated that reclaimed water irrigation is the main non-point source of PFASs in shallow groundwater. In contrast, deep groundwater is primarily subject to point sources and lateral recharge flow. This investigation of PFASs in shallow and deep wells provides a foundation for further exploration of PFASs transportation and risk prevention in regions where groundwater is a major water resource for domestic and industrial development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Xingchun
- National Research Center for Geoanalysis, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China.
| | - Zhao Wei
- Beijing Institute of Geological Environment Monitoring, China
| | - Pan Jing
- Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China
| | - Lu Guohui
- National Research Center for Geoanalysis, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China
| | - Chen Dian
- School of Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences Beijing, China
| | - Zhang Zhaohe
- School of Earth Sciences and Resources, China University of Geosciences Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Yiran
- National Research Center for Geoanalysis, Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Wu L, Gu J, Duan X, Ge F, Ye H, Kong L, Liu W, Gao R, Jiao J, Chen H, Ji G. Insight into the mechanisms of neuroendocrine toxicity induced by 6:2FTCA via thyroid hormone disruption. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 341:140031. [PMID: 37660785 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140031] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
6:2 fluorotonic carboxylic acid (6:2 FTCA), a novel substitute for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), is being used gradually in industrial production such as coatings or processing aids, and its detection rate in the aqueous environment is increasing year by year, posing a potential safety risk to aquatic systems and public health. However, limited information is available on the effects and mechanism of 6:2 FTCA. Therefore, this study was conducted to understand better the neuroendocrine effects of early exposure to 6:2 FTCA and the underlying mechanisms on zebrafish. In this study, zebrafish embryos were treated to varied doses of 6:2 FTCA (0, 0.08 μg/mL, 0.8 μg/mL and 8 μg/mL) at 4 h post-fertilization (hpf) for a duration of six days, which exhibited a pronounced inhibition of early growth and induced a disorganized swim pattern characterized by reduced total swim distance and average swim speed. Simultaneously, the thyroid development of zebrafish larvae was partially hindered, accompanied by decreased T3 levels, altered genes associated with the expression of thyroid hormone synthesis, transformation and transportation and neurotransmitters associated with tryptophan and tyrosine metabolic pathways. Molecular docking results showed that 6:2 FTCA has a robust binding energy with the thyroid hormone receptor (TRβ). Moreover, exogenous T3 supplementation can partially restore the adverse outcomes. Our findings indicated that 6:2 FTCA acts as a thyroid endocrine disruptor and can induce neuroendocrine toxic effects. Furthermore, our results show that targeting TRβ may be a potentially therapeutic strategy for 6:2 FTCA-induced neuroendocrine disrupting effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Wu
- The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, 214023, China; School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Jie Gu
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Jiangwangmiao Street 8, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Pesticide Environmental Assessment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People's Republic of China, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Xinjie Duan
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Feng Ge
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Jiangwangmiao Street 8, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Pesticide Environmental Assessment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People's Republic of China, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Heyong Ye
- The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, 214023, China; School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Lingcan Kong
- The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, 214023, China; School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Wenwei Liu
- The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, 214023, China; School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Rong Gao
- School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China
| | - Jiandong Jiao
- The Affiliated Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuxi, 214023, China; School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210029, China.
| | - Huanhuan Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Guixiang Ji
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Jiangwangmiao Street 8, Nanjing, 210042, China; Key Laboratory of Pesticide Environmental Assessment and Pollution Control, Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People's Republic of China, Nanjing 210042, China.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Bai Y, Wang Q, Li J, Zhou B, Lam PKS, Hu C, Chen L. Significant Variability in the Developmental Toxicity of Representative Perfluoroalkyl Acids as a Function of Chemical Speciation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:14904-14916. [PMID: 37774144 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c06178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Current toxicological data of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are disparate under similar exposure scenarios. To find the cause of the conflicting data, this study examined the influence of chemical speciation on the toxicity of representative PFAAs, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorobutane carboxylic acid (PFBA), and perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS). Zebrafish embryos were acutely exposed to PFAA, PFAA salt, and a pH-negative control, after which the developmental impairment and mechanisms were explored. The results showed that PFAAs were generally more toxic than the corresponding pH control, indicating that the embryonic toxicity of PFAAs was mainly caused by the pollutants themselves. In contrast to the high toxicity of PFAAs, PFAA salts only exhibited mild hazards to zebrafish embryos. Fingerprinting the changes along the thyroidal axis demonstrated distinct modes of endocrine disruption for PFAAs and PFAA salts. Furthermore, biolayer interferometry monitoring found that PFOA and PFBS acids bound more strongly with albumin proteins than did their salts. Accordingly, the acid of PFAAs accumulated significantly higher concentrations than their salt counterparts. The present findings highlight the importance of chemical forms to the outcome of developmental toxicity, calling for the discriminative risk assessment and management of PFAAs and salts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yachen Bai
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution and Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jing Li
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Bingsheng Zhou
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Paul K S Lam
- Department of Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Kowloon 999077, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chenyan Hu
- School of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Lianguo Chen
- Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lykkebo CA, Mortensen MS, Davidsen N, Bahl MI, Ramhøj L, Granby K, Svingen T, Licht TR. Antibiotic induced restructuring of the gut microbiota does not affect oral uptake and accumulation of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 334:122179. [PMID: 37454717 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) is a manmade legacy compound belonging to the group of persistent per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS). While many adverse health effects of PFOS have been identified, knowledge about its effect on the intestinal microbiota is scarce. The microbial community inhabiting the gut of mammals plays an important role in health, for instance by affecting the uptake, excretion, and bioavailability of some xenobiotic toxicants. Here, we investigated (i) the effect of vancomycin-mediated microbiota modulation on the uptake of PFOS in adult Sprague-Dawley rats, and (ii) the effects of PFOS exposure on the rat microbiota composition. Four groups of twelve rats were exposed daily for 7 days with either 3 mg/kg PFOS plus 8 mg/kg vancomycin, only PFOS, only vancomycin, or a corn oil control. Vancomycin-induced modulation of the gut microbiota composition did not affect uptake of branched and linear PFOS over a period of 7 days, measured in serum samples. 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing of faecal and intestinal samples revealed that vancomycin treatment lowered microbial alpha-diversity, while PFOS increased the microbial diversity in vancomycin-treated as well as in non-antibiotic treated animals, possibly because an observed decrease in the Enterobacteriaceae abundance allows other microbial species to propagate. Colonic short-chain fatty acids were significantly lower in vancomycin-treated animals but remained unaffected by PFOS. Our results suggest that PFOS exposure may disturb the intestinal microbiota, but that antibiotic-induced modulation of the intestinal ecosystem does not affect systemic uptake of PFOS in rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claus Asger Lykkebo
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark.
| | | | - Nichlas Davidsen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Martin Iain Bahl
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Louise Ramhøj
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Kit Granby
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Tine Rask Licht
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs, Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Joseph NT, Schwichtenberg T, Cao D, Jones GD, Rodowa AE, Barlaz MA, Charbonnet JA, Higgins CP, Field JA, Helbling DE. Target and Suspect Screening Integrated with Machine Learning to Discover Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Source Fingerprints. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:14351-14362. [PMID: 37696050 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c03770] [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: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
This study elucidates per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) fingerprints for specific PFAS source types. Ninety-two samples were collected from aqueous film-forming foam impacted groundwater (AFFF-GW), landfill leachate, biosolids leachate, municipal wastewater treatment plant effluent (WWTP), and wastewater effluent from the pulp and paper and power generation industries. High-resolution mass spectrometry operated with electrospray ionization in negative mode was used to quantify up to 50 target PFASs and screen and semi-quantify up to 2,266 suspect PFASs in each sample. Machine learning classifiers were used to identify PFASs that were diagnostic of each source type. Four C5-C7 perfluoroalkyl acids and one suspect PFAS (trihydrogen-substituted fluoroethernonanoic acid) were diagnostic of AFFF-GW. Two target PFASs (5:3 and 6:2 fluorotelomer carboxylic acids) and two suspect PFASs (4:2 fluorotelomer-thia-acetic acid and N-methylperfluoropropane sulfonamido acetic acid) were diagnostic of landfill leachate. Biosolids leachates were best classified along with landfill leachates and N-methyl and N-ethyl perfluorooctane sulfonamido acetic acid assisted in that classification. WWTP, pulp and paper, and power generation samples contained few target PFASs, but fipronil (a fluorinated insecticide) was diagnostic of WWTP samples. Our results provide PFAS fingerprints for known sources and identify target and suspect PFASs that can be used for source allocation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nayantara T Joseph
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Trever Schwichtenberg
- Chemistry Department, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Dunping Cao
- Chemistry Department, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Gerrad D Jones
- Department of Biological & Ecological Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Alix E Rodowa
- National Institutes of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899, United States
| | - Morton A Barlaz
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Joseph A Charbonnet
- Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, United States
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Christopher P Higgins
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado 80401, United States
| | - Jennifer A Field
- Department of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon 97331, United States
| | - Damian E Helbling
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Hakimabadi SG, Taylor A, Pham ALT. Factors Affecting the Adsorption of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) by Colloidal Activated Carbon. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 242:120212. [PMID: 37336180 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120212] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
The immobilization of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by colloidal activated carbon (CAC) barriers has been proposed as a potential in-situ method to mitigate the transport of plumes of PFAS in the subsurface. However, if PFAS are continuously released from a source zone, the adsorptive sites on CAC will eventually become saturated, upon which point the breakthrough of PFAS in the barrier will occur. To predict the long-term effectiveness of CAC barriers, it is important to evaluate the factors that may affect the adsorption of PFAS on CAC. In this study, the adsorption of 7 PFAS on a polymer-stabilized CAC (i.e., PlumeStop®) and on a polymer-free CAC was investigated using batch experiments. The adsorption affinity of PFAS to CAC was in the following order: PFOS > 6:2 FTS > PFHxS > PFOA > PFBS > PFPeA > PFBA. This result indicates that hydrophobic interaction was the predominant adsorption mechanism, and that hydrophilic compounds such as PFBA and PFPeA will break through CAC barriers first. The partition coefficient Kd for the adsorption of PFAS on the polymer-stabilized CAC was 1.3 - 3.5 times smaller than the Kd for the adsorption of PFAS on the polymer-free CAC, suggesting that the polymers decreased the adsorption, presumably due to competitive sorption. Thus, the PFAS adsorption capacity of PlumeStop CAC barriers is expected to increase once the polymers are biodegraded and/or washed away. The affinity of PFOS and PFOA to CAC increased when the ionic strength of the solution increased from 1 to 100 mM, or when the concentration of Ca2+ increased from 0 to 2 mM. In contrast, less PFOS and PFOA were adsorbed in the presence of 1 - 20 mgC/L Suwannee River Fulvic Acid, which represented dissolved organic carbon, or in the presence of 10 - 100 mg/L diethylene glycol butyl ether (DGBE), which is an important component in some aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) formulations. The presence of 0.5 - 4.8 mg/L benzene or 0.5 - 8 mg/L trichloroethylene, the co-contaminants that may comingle with PFAS at AFFF-impacted sites, diminished PFOS adsorption but had no effect or even slightly enhanced PFOA adsorption. When the initial concentration of TCE was 8 mg/L, the Kd (514 ± 240 L/g) for the adsorption of PFOS was approximately 20 times lower than that in the TCE-free system (Kd = 9,579 ± 829 L/g). The results of this study provided insights into some key factors that may affect the adsorption of PFAS in in-situ CAC barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alannah Taylor
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Anh Le-Tuan Pham
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Smalling KL, Romanok KM, Bradley PM, Morriss MC, Gray JL, Kanagy LK, Gordon SE, Williams BM, Breitmeyer SE, Jones DK, DeCicco LA, Eagles-Smith CA, Wagner T. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in United States tapwater: Comparison of underserved private-well and public-supply exposures and associated health implications. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 178:108033. [PMID: 37356308 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
Drinking-water quality is a rising concern in the United States (US), emphasizing the need to broadly assess exposures and potential health effects at the point-of-use. Drinking-water exposures to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a national concern, however, there is limited information on PFAS in residential tapwater at the point-of-use, especially from private-wells. We conducted a national reconnaissance to compare human PFAS exposures in unregulated private-well and regulated public-supply tapwater. Tapwater from 716 locations (269 private-wells; 447 public supply) across the US was collected during 2016-2021 including three locations where temporal sampling was conducted. Concentrations of PFAS were assessed by three laboratories and compared with land-use and potential-source metrics to explore drivers of contamination. The number of individual PFAS observed ranged from 1 to 9 (median: 2) with corresponding cumulative concentrations (sum of detected PFAS) ranging from 0.348 to 346 ng/L. Seventeen PFAS were observed at least once with PFBS, PFHxS and PFOA observed most frequently in approximately 15% of the samples. Across the US, PFAS profiles and estimated median cumulative concentrations were similar among private wells and public-supply tapwater. We estimate that at least one PFAS could be detected in about 45% of US drinking-water samples. These detection probabilities varied spatially with limited temporal variation in concentrations/numbers of PFAS detected. Benchmark screening approaches indicated potential human exposure risk was dominated by PFOA and PFOS, when detected. Potential source and land-use information was related to cumulative PFAS concentrations, and the number of PFAS detected; however, corresponding relations with specific PFAS were limited likely due to low detection frequencies and higher detection limits. Information generated supports the need for further assessments of cumulative health risks of PFAS as a class and in combination with other co-occurring contaminants, particularly in unmonitored private-wells where information is limited or not available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Tyler Wagner
- U.S. Geological Survey, Pennsylvania Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Yu L, Hua Z, Liu X, Chen L, Zhang Y, Ma Y, Dong Y, Xue H. The addition of iron-carbon enhances the removal of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) in constructed wetlands. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 327:121534. [PMID: 37001598 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121534] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Hazardous perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), particularly perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA), have become ubiquitous environmental persistent organic contaminants, posing serious threats to environmental health, which has led to the development of PFAA treatment methods. Wetland construction in combination with iron-carbon (CW-I), a low-maintenance and high-efficiency technology, may be capable of removing PFAAs through physico-biochemical processes. In this study, we aim to investigate the removal efficiency of PFAAs by CW-I as well as the critical functions of all components within the wetlands. Pairwise comparisons of iron-carbon and control groups revealed that iron-carbon significantly enhanced 15.9% for PFOA and 17.9% for PFOS absorption through phytouptake and substrate adsorption, with respective removal efficiencies of 71.8% ± 1.03% and 85.8% ± 1.56%. The generated iron ions stimulated plant growth and further enhanced phytouptake of PFAAs, with PFAAs accumulated primarily in root tissues with limited translocation. Observations of batch adsorption suggest that chemical and electrostatic interactions are involved in the iron-carbon adsorption process, with film and intraparticle diffusions being the rate-limiting events. Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that PFAA adsorption by substrates occurs at the molecular level, as well as the occurrence of hydrophobic force effects and ligand exchanges during the iron-carbon adsorption process. Additionally, iron-carbon significantly altered the genera, phyla, and community structure of microorganisms, and some microorganisms and their extracellular polymers may possess ability to bind PFAAs. The information provided in this study contributes to our understanding of the PFAA removal processes in CW-I and enriched the classical cases of PFAA removal by CWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Yu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Zulin Hua
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China.
| | - Luying Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Yixin Ma
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Yueyang Dong
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210098, China
| | - Hongqin Xue
- School of Civil Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Li L, Guo R, Gao J, Liu J, Zhao Z, Sheng X, Fan J, Cui F. Insight into mechanochemical destruction of PFOA by BaTiO 3: An electron-dominated reduction process. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 450:131028. [PMID: 36857827 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a representative persistent organic pollutant and its disposal by mechanochemical (MC) technology emerges in recent years. However, degradation mechanism of PFOA especially rupture of C-F bonds during MC process is still unclear. Therefore, we innovatively employed barium titanate as co-milling reagent in MC system to disclose an electron-dominated reduction process. By stimulating piezoelectric effect of BaTiO3 under MC impact, free electrons were generated. The results implied more than 95.00% degradation and 60.00% defluorination efficiency were obtained after 6 h' ball milling. DPPH• was used as probe to confirm the existence of piezo-excited electrons, which were further verified to be major reactive species by atmosphere experiments. Thus, PFOA destruction was dominated by reduction process, characterizing by breakage of C-F bonds induced by electrons. Accordingly, the fate of organic fluorides was explored and BaF2 was identified as final product. The cleavage of carboxyl group initiated PFOA decomposition, following by successive removal of CF2 groups and elimination of F-. Moreover, the practical experiments and reusable trials implied promising application of this method. Overall, this paper provides a novel perspective for reductive decomposition of PFOA by MC technology and reveals the major role of electrons during reaction process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Ruoning Guo
- Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Jie Gao
- Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Military Facilities, Army Logistics Academy, Chongqing 401311, PR China
| | - Zhiwei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China.
| | - Xin Sheng
- Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| | - JunYu Fan
- Department of Military Facilities, Army Logistics Academy, Chongqing 401311, PR China
| | - Fuyi Cui
- Key Laboratory of Eco-environments in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, Ministry of Education, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Díaz-Galiano FJ, Murcia-Morales M, Monteau F, Le Bizec B, Dervilly G. Collision cross-section as a universal molecular descriptor in the analysis of PFAS and use of ion mobility spectrum filtering for improved analytical sensitivities. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1251:341026. [PMID: 36925298 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
The massive usage of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as well as their high chemical stability, have led to their ubiquitous presence in environmental matrices and direct human exposure through contaminated food, particularly fish. In the analysis of this large group of substances, the use of ion mobility coupled to mass spectrometry is of particular relevance because it uses an additional descriptor, the collision cross-section (CCS), which results in increased selectivity. In the present work, the TWCCSN2 of 24 priority PFAS were experimentally obtained, and the reproducibility of these measurements was evaluated over seven weeks. The average values were employed to critically assess previously reported data and theoretical calculations. This gain in selectivity made it possible to increase the sensitivity of the detection on complex matrices (biota, food and human serum) by using the drift time associated to each analyte as a filter, thus reducing the interferences and background noise and allowing their detection at trace levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco José Díaz-Galiano
- ONIRIS, INRAE, LABERCA, Nantes, 44000, France; University of Almería, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (ceiA3), Ctra. Sacramento s/n, La Cañada de San Urbano, 04120, Almería, Spain
| | - María Murcia-Morales
- ONIRIS, INRAE, LABERCA, Nantes, 44000, France; University of Almería, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Agrifood Campus of International Excellence (ceiA3), Ctra. Sacramento s/n, La Cañada de San Urbano, 04120, Almería, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Dulsat-Masvidal M, Ciudad C, Infante O, Mateo R, Lacorte S. Water pollution threats in important bird and biodiversity areas from Spain. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130938. [PMID: 36860036 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130938] [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: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Chemical pollution is still an underestimated threat to surface waters from natural areas. This study has analysed the presence and distribution of 59 organic micropollutants (OMPs) including pharmaceuticals, lifestyle compounds, pesticides, organophosphate esters (OPEs), benzophenone and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in 411 water samples from 140 Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) from Spain, to evaluate the impact of these pollutants in sites of environmental relevance. Lifestyle compounds, pharmaceuticals and OPEs were the most ubiquitous chemical families, while pesticides and PFASs showed a detection frequency below 25% of the samples. The mean concentrations detected ranged from 0.1 to 301 ng/L. According to spatial data, agricultural surface has been identified as the most important source of all OMPs in natural areas. Lifestyle compounds and PFASs have been related to the presence of artificial surface and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) discharges, which were also an important source of pharmaceuticals to surface waters. Fifteen out of 59 OMPs have been found at levels posing a high risk for the aquatic IBAs ecosystems, being the insecticide chlorpyrifos, the antidepressant venlafaxine and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) the most concerning compounds. This is the first study to quantify water pollution in IBAs and evidence that OMPs are an emerging threat to freshwater ecosystems that are essential for biodiversity conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dulsat-Masvidal
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Ciudad
- SEO/BirdLife, Melquiades Biencinto, 34, 28053 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Silvia Lacorte
- Department of Environmental Chemistry, IDAEA-CSIC, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Liu Y, Jin T, Wang L, Tang J. Polystyrene micro and nanoplastics attenuated the bioavailability and toxic effects of Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) on soybean (Glycine max) sprouts. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 448:130911. [PMID: 36860033 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.130911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) have attracted much attention since their wide distribution in the environment and organisms. MNPs in the environment adsorb other organic pollutants, such as Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), and cause combined effects. However, the impact of MNPs and PFOS in agricultural hydroponic systems is unclear. This study investigated the combined effects of polystyrene (PS) MNPs and PFOS on soybean (Glycine max) sprouts, which are common hydroponic vegetable. Results demonstrated that the adsorption of PFOS on PS particles transformed free PFOS into adsorbed state and reduced its bioavailability and potential migration, thus attenuating acute toxic effects such as oxidative stress. TEM and Laser confocal microscope images showed that PS nanoparticles uptake in sprout tissue was enhanced by the adsorption of PFOS which is because of changes of the particle surface properties. Transcriptome analysis showed that PS and PFOS exposure promoted soybean sprouts to adapt to environmental stress and MARK pathway might play an important role in recognition of microplastics coated by PFOS and response to enhancing plant resistance. This study provided the first evaluation about the effect of adsorption between PS particles and PFOS on their phytotoxicity and bioavailability, in order to provide new ideas for risk assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaxuan Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Tianyue Jin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Lan Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jingchun Tang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Engineering Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Jia X, Li X, Zhou L, Hui Y, Li W, Cai Y, Shi Y. Variations of the Level, Profile, and Distribution of PFAS around POSF Manufacturing Facilities in China: An Overlooked Source of PFCA. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:5264-5274. [PMID: 36939348 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) was investigated inside two manufacturing facilities in China. Levels, profiles, and spatial distribution of the detected PFAS were found to be distinctly site-specific and influenced by the area's historic function, production structure of the plant, downpour-induced accidental pollution, and variations in the adsorption and transport of compounds. Very high concentrations of PFAS [mainly C4 and C8 perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFSAs)] were found in topsoil and groundwater from both plants, with the highest values of 4.89 × 106 μg/kg dw and 1.10 × 104 μg/L, respectively. Elevated concentrations of perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) in this study were attributed to their unintentional formation during the electrochemical fluorination process, which might be an overlooked source of PFCA. PFAS generally showed decreasing trends from shallow layers to the bottom of the soil core and demonstrated some downward migrations at different soil depths with time, and C4-C8 PFAS presented a deeper seepage than their long-chain homologues. Total organic carbon appeared to be more important for PFAS sorption to the topsoil than to the soil core. Workers were at potential risk of exposure to perfluorooctanesulfonic acid via soil at production and storage related sites. This study provides a critical reference for the systematic control of PFAS pollution around manufacturing facilities and a proof for an overlooked source of PFCA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Jia
- 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
| | - Xiaotong Li
- 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
| | - Longfei Zhou
- 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
| | - Yamei Hui
- CSD IDEA (Beijing) Environmental Test & Analysis Co., Ltd., Beijing 100192, China
| | - Wenchao Li
- CSD IDEA (Beijing) Environmental Test & Analysis Co., Ltd., Beijing 100192, China
| | - Yaqi Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Institute of Environment and Health, Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056, China
| | - Yali Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Villeneuve DL, Blackwell BR, Cavallin JE, Collins J, Hoang JX, Hofer RN, Houck KA, Jensen KM, Kahl MD, Kutsi RN, Opseth AS, Santana Rodriguez KJ, Schaupp CM, Stacy EH, Ankley GT. Verification of In Vivo Estrogenic Activity for Four Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Identified as Estrogen Receptor Agonists via New Approach Methodologies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:3794-3803. [PMID: 36800546 PMCID: PMC10898820 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c09315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Given concerns about potential toxicological hazards of the thousands of data-poor per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) currently in commerce and detected in the environment, tiered testing strategies that employ high-throughput in vitro screening as an initial testing tier have been implemented. The present study evaluated the effectiveness of previous in vitro screening for identifying PFAS capable, or incapable, of inducing estrogenic responses in fish exposed in vivo. Fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were exposed for 96 h to five PFAS (perfluorooctanoic acid [PFOA]; 1H,1H,8H,8H-perfluorooctane-1,8-diol [FC8-diol]; 1H,1H,10H,10H-perfluorodecane-1,10-diol [FC10-diol]; 1H,1H,8H,8H-perfluoro-3,6-dioxaoctane-1,8-diol [FC8-DOD]; and perfluoro-2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic acid [HFPO-DA]) that showed varying levels of in vitro estrogenic potency. In agreement with in vitro screening results, exposure to FC8-diol, FC10-diol, and FC8-DOD caused concentration-dependent increases in the expression of transcript coding for vitellogenin and estrogen receptor alpha and reduced expression of insulin-like growth factor and apolipoprotein eb. Once differences in bioconcentration were accounted for, the rank order of potency in vivo matched that determined in vitro. These results provide a screening level benchmark for worst-case estimates of potential estrogenic hazards of PFAS and a basis for identifying structurally similar PFAS to scrutinize for putative estrogenic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel L. Villeneuve
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Brett R. Blackwell
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Jenna E. Cavallin
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Jacob Collins
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - John X. Hoang
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Rachel N. Hofer
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Keith A. Houck
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Biomolecular and Computational Toxicology Division, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kathleen M. Jensen
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Michael D. Kahl
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Robin N. Kutsi
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Anne S. Opseth
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Kelvin J. Santana Rodriguez
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Christopher M. Schaupp
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Emma H. Stacy
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, US EPA, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| | - Gerald T. Ankley
- US Environmental Protection Agency, Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Great Lakes Toxicology and Ecology Division, Duluth, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
LaKind JS, Naiman J, Verner MA, Lévêque L, Fenton S. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in breast milk and infant formula: A global issue. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 219:115042. [PMID: 36529330 PMCID: PMC9872587 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.115042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are transferred from mother to infants through breastfeeding, a time when children may be particularly vulnerable to PFAS-mediated adverse health effects. Infants can also be exposed to PFAS from infant formula consumption. Our recent literature-based scoping of breast milk levels reported that four PFAS often exceeded the United States Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) children's drinking water screening levels in both the general population and highly impacted communities in the U.S. and Canada. This work presents a comparison of global breast milk and infant formula PFAS measurements with the only reported health-based drinking water screening values specific to children. METHODS We focused on four PFAS for which ATSDR has developed children's drinking water screening values: PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid), PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), PFHxS (perfluorohexanesulfonic acid), and PFNA (perfluorononanoic acid). Published literature on PFAS levels in breast milk and infant formula were identified via PubMed searches. Data were compared to children's drinking water screening values. DISCUSSION Breast milk concentrations of PFOA and PFOS often exceed children's drinking water screening values, regardless of geographic location. The limited information on infant formula suggests its use does not necessarily result in lower PFAS exposures, especially for formulas reconstituted with drinking water containing PFAS. Unfortunately, individuals generally cannot know whether their infant's exposures exceed children's drinking water screening values. Thus, it is essential that pregnant and lactating women and others, especially those having lived in PFAS-contaminated communities, have data required to make informed decisions on infant nutrition. An international monitoring effort and access to affordable testing are needed for breast milk, drinking water and infant formula to fully understand infant PFAS exposures. Currently, our understanding of demonstrable methods for reducing exposures to emerging PFAS is limited, making this research and the communications surrounding it even more important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Judy S LaKind
- LaKind Associates, LLC, 106 Oakdale Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 655 W Baltimore St, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
| | - Josh Naiman
- Naiman Associates, LLC, 504 S 44th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
| | - Marc-Andre Verner
- Departement of Occuptional and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal School of Public Health, 2375 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Office 4105, Montreal (Québec) H3T 1A8 Canada; Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal and CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, CP 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montreal (Québec) H3C 3J7 Canada.
| | - Laura Lévêque
- Departement of Occuptional and Environmental Health, Université de Montréal School of Public Health, 2375 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Office 4105, Montreal (Québec) H3T 1A8 Canada; Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal and CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, CP 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montreal (Québec) H3C 3J7 Canada.
| | - Suzanne Fenton
- Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 111 TW Alexander Dr, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Wu YL, Xiong Q, Wang B, Liu YS, Zhou PL, Hu LX, Liu F, Ying GG. Screening of structural and functional alterations in duckweed (Lemna minor) induced by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) with FTIR spectroscopy. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 317:120671. [PMID: 36436661 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As a class of common emerging pollutants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and their alternatives have been widely detected in various environmental matrices, exhibiting a great threat to the ecological environment and human health. Nevertheless, changes in biomolecular structure and function of duckweed caused by PFASs and their alternatives remain unknown thus far. Herein, the effects of four PFASs, including two common legacy PFASs (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)) and two PFASs alternatives (perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) and 1H,1H,2H, 2H-perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (6:2 FTS)) on duckweed (Lemna minor) at biochemical level were investigated with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Although no obvious inhibitions were observed in the growth of L. minor with PFASs exposure at three levels of 1 μg L-1, 100 μg L-1, and 10 mg L-1, significant structural and functional alterations were induced at the biochemical level. In response to PFASs exposure, lipid peroxidation, proteins aggregation and α-helix to β-sheet transformation of the protein conformation, as well as changes of DNA conformations were detected. Moreover, alterations in lipid, protein, and DNA were proved to be concentration-related and compound-specific. Compared to the two legacy PFASs (PFOS and PFOA), alternative ones exhibited greater effects on the biological macromolecules of L. minor. The findings of this study firstly reveal structural and functional alterations in L. minor induced by PFASs exposure, providing further understanding of their toxicity effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Lin Wu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Qian Xiong
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of South China Sea Fishery Resources & Environments, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Fishery Ecology and Environment, Guangdong Province, South China Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou, 510300, China
| | - Ben Wang
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - You-Sheng Liu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Pei-Liang Zhou
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Li-Xin Hu
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Fang Liu
- School of Geography, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510623, China
| | - Guang-Guo Ying
- SCNU Environmental Research Institute, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chemical Pollution and Environmental Safety & MOE Key Laboratory of Theoretical Chemistry of Environment, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, 510006, China; School of Environment, South China Normal University, University Town, Guangzhou, 510006, China.
| |
Collapse
|