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Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances...
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Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs)

A special issue of Toxics (ISSN 2305-6304). This special issue belongs to the section "Emerging Contaminants".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 January 2024) | Viewed by 14105

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Chang-Gui Pan

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
Interests: PFAS; PPCP; microplastics; environmental fate; adsorption; degradation; risk assessment; ecotoxicology
Dr. Runxia Sun

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
School of Marine Sciences, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
Interests: estuaries; flame retardants; polychlorinated biphenyls

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are emerging organic contaminants that have been used for decades in various commercial and industrial applications, including firefighting foams, floor polishes, paints, semiconductors, photographic films, pesticide formulations, carpets, upholstery, etc. Due to their ubiquity, persistence, bioaccumulation potential and toxicity, some of these chemicals (e.g., PFOA and PFOS) were listed as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in 2009 and 2019 under the Stockholm Convention for global efforts to reduce environmental releases. Correspondingly, short-chain PFASs and other emerging alternatives of long-chain PFASs are increasingly being introduced into the market. However, PFASs, especially emerging alternatives, are currently not included in (inter)national routine monitoring programs and their fate, environmental behaviors, and effects on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems are often not well understood.

Thus, this Special Issue aims to bring together recent research and reviews into the occurrence, fate, removal and effects of PFASs.

  • The expected papers to be published in this Special Issue.
  • Rapid, high-selectivity and high-sensitivity analytical methods for analysis of PFASs and their alternatives.
  • Environmental distribution, bioaccumulation, transfer, modelling, and ecological impacts.
  • Human exposure and potential adverse health effects.
  • Adsorption, degradation and other treatment techniques.

Dr. Chang-Gui Pan
Dr. Runxia Sun
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Toxics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • PFAS
  • occurrence
  • fate
  • bioaccumulation
  • ecotoxicology
  • exposure
  • degradation
  • adsorption

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 18298 KiB  
Article
In Vitro and In Silico Analysis of the Bindings between Legacy and Novel Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Human Serum Albumin
by Yuqing Wu, Jia Bao, Yang Liu, Xin Wang, Xinyi Lu and Ke Wang
Toxics 2024, 12(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12010046 - 8 Jan 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1178
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are emerging contaminants of concern that can enter the human body through a variety of pathways and thereby cause harmful effects. Exposure of pregnant women to PFASs could even affect both the mother and the child. Human serum [...] Read more.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are emerging contaminants of concern that can enter the human body through a variety of pathways and thereby cause harmful effects. Exposure of pregnant women to PFASs could even affect both the mother and the child. Human serum albumin (HSA) is considered to be the primary transport protein for a variety of substances in body fluids. It can be bound to different contaminants and might result in possible effects on human health. Yet, few studies are available on the binding affinity of legacy PFASs and their novel alternatives to HSA. In this study, the binding mechanisms of HSA to both legacy PFASs and their novel alternatives were investigated using fluorescence spectroscopy, together with further molecular docking. The results show that all the target PFASs were statically quenched against HSA with binding ratios of 1:1. The binding constants of long-chain PFASs and novel alternatives of perfluoroalkanesulfonic acids (PFSAs) were greater than 102, whereas those of short-chain PFASs alternatives and novel alternatives of perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) were less than 102. In general, the binding affinities of PFCAs on HSA were less than that of PFSAs, while the binding affinities of short-chain PFASs alternatives on HSA were smaller than those of long-chain PFASs and their novel alternatives. Therefore, bindings to HSA could be considered as an important influencing factor for the bioaccumulation of legacy and novel PFASs in the human body. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs))
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14 pages, 2790 KiB  
Communication
Biodegradation Potential of C7-C10 Perfluorocarboxylic Acids and Data from the Genome of a New Strain of Pseudomonas mosselii 5(3)
by Sergey Chetverikov, Gaisar Hkudaygulov, Danil Sharipov, Sergey Starikov and Darya Chetverikova
Toxics 2023, 11(12), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11121001 - 8 Dec 2023
Viewed by 1473
Abstract
The use of bacteria of the genus Pseudomonas—destructors of persistent pollutants for biotechnologies of environmental purification—is an interesting area of research. The aim of this work was to study the potential of Pseudomonas mosselii strain 5(3) isolated from pesticide-contaminated soil as a degrader [...] Read more.
The use of bacteria of the genus Pseudomonas—destructors of persistent pollutants for biotechnologies of environmental purification—is an interesting area of research. The aim of this work was to study the potential of Pseudomonas mosselii strain 5(3) isolated from pesticide-contaminated soil as a degrader of C7-C10 perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) and analyze its complete genome. The genome of the strain has been fully sequenced. It consists of a chromosome with a length of 5,676,241 b.p. and containing a total of 5134 genes, in particular, haloalkane dehalogenase gene (dhaA), haloacetate dehalogenase H-1 gene (dehH1), fluoride ion transporter gene (crcB) and alkanesulfonate monooxygenase gene (ssuE), responsible for the degradation of fluorinated compounds. The strain P. mosselii 5(3) for was cultivated for 7 days in a liquid medium with various C7-C10 PFCAs as the sole source of carbon and energy, and completely disposed of them. The results of LC-MS analysis showed that the transformation takes place due to perfluorohexanoic acid with the release of various levels of stoichiometry (depending on PFCA) of fluorine ion mineralization indicators determined by ion chromatography. Thus, Pseudomonas mosselii strain 5(3) demonstrates a genetically confirmed high potential for the decomposition of C7-C10 PFCA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs))
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0 pages, 1237 KiB  
Article
The Association of Perfluoroalkyl Substance Exposure and a Serum Liver Function Marker in Korean Adults
by Jisuk Yun and Soon-Chan Kwon
Toxics 2023, 11(12), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11120965 - 28 Nov 2023
Viewed by 1734
Abstract
Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely used throughout industry and daily life, are currently one of the environmental pollutants garnering the most attention worldwide. Recently, environmental pollutants have had a high profile as one of the main causes of chronic liver disease, such as non-alcoholic [...] Read more.
Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), widely used throughout industry and daily life, are currently one of the environmental pollutants garnering the most attention worldwide. Recently, environmental pollutants have had a high profile as one of the main causes of chronic liver disease, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Research on PFAS is actively underway. Although Korea has a remarkably high prevalence of chronic liver disease, and it continues to increase, only a few studies have revealed the relationship between PFAS and liver disease. In addition, regulations on PFAS in Korea are delayed compared to developed countries, such as Europe and the United States, and public interest is insufficient compared to others. Therefore, we would like to investigate the exposure of Koreans to PFAS in the blood and examine the relationship between these substances and markers of liver function (AST, ALT, and GGT). This study was based on the results of the Korean National Environmental Health Survey (KoNEHS) 2015–2017 (Cycle 3), and a total of 2961 subjects were selected. The concentration of PFAS in the blood of Korean adults was measured to be significantly higher based on the geometric mean compared to the results of recently investigated American adults based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2017–2018). A multivariable linear regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, alcohol intake, and regular exercise was performed to examine changes in three liver function markers as the serum PFAS concentration increased. We found that some of the five PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, and PFDeA) were significantly associated with increased liver enzymes. It is necessary to recognize the threat of PFAS to the human body and to discuss regulations and alternatives in earnest. Continuous follow-up studies are required through a well-designed cohort. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs))
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15 pages, 3100 KiB  
Article
Insights into the Understanding of Adsorption Behaviors of Legacy and Emerging Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) on Various Anion-Exchange Resins
by Hong-Ming Tan, Chang-Gui Pan, Chao Yin and Kefu Yu
Toxics 2023, 11(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11020161 - 9 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2322
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have received extensive attention due to their various harmful effects. In this study, the adsorptive removal of 10 legacy and emerging PFASs by four anion-exchange resins (including gel and macroreticular resins) were systematically investigated. Our results showed that [...] Read more.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have received extensive attention due to their various harmful effects. In this study, the adsorptive removal of 10 legacy and emerging PFASs by four anion-exchange resins (including gel and macroreticular resins) were systematically investigated. Our results showed that the capacities of resins absorbing PFASs were ranked in the following order: gel strong base HPR4700 (297~300 μg/g) ≈ macroreticular strong base S6368 (294~300 μg/g) ≈ macroreticular weak base A111S (289~300 μg/g) > gel weak base WA10 (233~297 μg/g). Adsorption kinetic results indicated that the adsorption process might involve chemical and Henry regime adsorption or reaction control. Intraparticle diffusion was probably the major removal step. Co-existing fulvic acid (0.5, 1, 5 mg/L) and inorganic anions (5 mg/L of sulfate, carbonate, bicarbonate) would hinder the PFAS removal by resins with WA10 showing the highest inhibition rate of 17% and 71%, respectively. The adsorption capacities of PFBA decreased from 233 μg/g to 194 μg/g, and from 233 μg/g to 67 μg/g in the presence of fulvic acid and inorganic anions, respectively. PFASs were more easily removed by HPR4700, S6368, and A111S under neutral and alkaline environment. Moreover, WA10 was not able to remove PFASs under an alkaline medium. This study offered theoretical support for removing PFASs from aqueous phases with various resins. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs))
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Review

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18 pages, 548 KiB  
Review
A Review: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances—Biological Degradation
by Dijana Grgas, Ana Petrina, Tea Štefanac, Drago Bešlo and Tibela Landeka Dragičević
Toxics 2023, 11(5), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11050446 - 9 May 2023
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4714
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), highly stable synthetic organic compounds with multiple carbon-fluorine bonds, are emerging as environmental contaminants, toxic, bioaccumulative, and environmentally persistent. PFASs are strongly resistant to biological and chemical degradation, and therefore PFASs present a challenge to researchers and scientists [...] Read more.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), highly stable synthetic organic compounds with multiple carbon-fluorine bonds, are emerging as environmental contaminants, toxic, bioaccumulative, and environmentally persistent. PFASs are strongly resistant to biological and chemical degradation, and therefore PFASs present a challenge to researchers and scientists for a better understanding and application of remediation methods and biodegradation of PFASs and have become subject to strict government regulations. The review summarizes the recent knowledge of bacterial and fungal degradation of PFASs, as well as the enzymes involved in the processes of transformation/degradation of PFASs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs))
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15 pages, 990 KiB  
Review
A Review on Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances in Pregnant Women: Maternal Exposure, Placental Transfer, and Relevant Model Simulation
by Yuqing Wu, Jia Bao, Yang Liu, Xin Wang and Wene Qu
Toxics 2023, 11(5), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11050430 - 4 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1785
Abstract
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are important and ubiquitous environmental contaminants worldwide. These novel contaminants can enter human bodies via various pathways, subsequently posing risks to the ecosystem and human health. The exposure of pregnant women to PFASs might pose risks to the [...] Read more.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are important and ubiquitous environmental contaminants worldwide. These novel contaminants can enter human bodies via various pathways, subsequently posing risks to the ecosystem and human health. The exposure of pregnant women to PFASs might pose risks to the health of mothers and the growth and development of fetuses. However, little information is available about the placental transfer of PFASs from mothers to fetuses and the related mechanisms through model simulation. In the present study, based upon a review of previously published literature, we initially summarized the exposure pathways of PFASs in pregnant women, factors affecting the efficiency of placental transfer, and mechanisms associated with placental transfer; outlined simulation analysis approaches using molecular docking and machine learning to reveal the mechanisms of placental transfer; and finally highlighted future research emphases that need to be focused on. Consequently, it was notable that the binding of PFASs to proteins during placental transfer could be simulated by molecular docking and that the placental transfer efficiency of PFASs could also be predicted by machine learning. Therefore, future research on the maternal–fetal transfer mechanisms of PFASs with the benefit of simulation analysis approaches is warranted to provide a scientific basis for the health effects of PFASs on newborns. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Occurrence, Fate, Removal, and Effects of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs))
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