Impact of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) on Aquatic Animals: Immunotoxicity, Endocrine Disruption, and Beyond

Dear Colleagues,

Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) are a focal point in toxicology and environmental sciences due to their profound implications for ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Among CECs, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are particularly worrisome in aquatic environments, where they are ubiquitous, with concentrations ranging from undetectable levels to micrograms per liter, and often persistent.

Aquatic fauna consistently face PFAS exposure, potentially serving as a pathway for human contamination through the food chain. Moreover, these animals offer valuable insights into PFAS toxicology, environmental pathology, and the One Health approach. Literature data on PFAS effects have increased greatly in the last 10 years but sometimes provide conflicting indications and still leave knowledge gaps on the exact mechanisms of toxicity, the response of organisms to environmentally relevant concentrations, and the risk posed by the new generation PFAS, which are poorly investigated.

The principal objective of the Special Issue is to advance our comprehension of the health consequences of PFAS contamination in aquatic environments, especially the effects of PFAS on the immune and endocrine systems, which play a pivotal role in enabling aquatic animals to cope with environmental stressors and, ultimately, determine their overall health and fitness. This perspective offers a distinctive exploration of the intricate interplay between these systems and others, shedding light on critical aspects of ecological and individual well-being.

This Special Issue aims to ignite comprehensive discussions on the impact of PFAS on aquatic animals, with a specific focus on immunotoxicity and endocrine disruption, and to consider the wider implications of these effects on interconnected biological systems based on a multidisciplinary approach spanning toxicology, pathology, and omic disciplines.

We expect this Special Issue will be of significant interest to researchers and professionals in the fields of toxicology, ecotoxicology, environmental sciences, and public health as it addresses an urgent matter of concern with extensive repercussions for both the natural world and human well-being.

New research papers, based on natural or experimental exposure to PFAS, as well as reviews, are welcome for this Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Maurizio Manera
Dr. Luisa Giari
Guest Editors

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