Occurrence and Bioaccumulation Patterns of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the Marine Environment

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group
of synthetic
compounds used in commercial applications, household products, and
industrial processes. The concern around the environmental persistence,
bioaccumulation, and toxicity of this vast contaminant class continues
to rise. We conducted a review of the scientific literature to compare
patterns of PFAS bioaccumulation in marine organisms and identify
compounds of potential concern. PFAS occurrence data in seawater,
sediments, and several marine taxa was analyzed from studies published
between the years 2000 and 2020. Taxonomic and tissue-specific differences
indicated elevated levels in protein-rich tissues and in air-breathing
organisms compared to those that respire in water. Long-chain perfluoroalkyl
carboxylic acids, particularly perfluoroundecanoic acid, were detected
at high concentrations across several taxa and across temporal studies
indicating their persistence and bioaccumulative potential. Perfluorooctanesulfonic
acid was elevated in various tissue types across taxa. Precursors
and replacement PFAS were detected in several marine organisms. Identification
of these trends across habitats and taxa can be applied toward biomonitoring
efforts, determination of high-risk taxa, and criteria development.
This review also highlights challenges related to PFAS biomonitoring
including (i) effects of environmental and biological variables, (ii)
evaluation of protein binding sites and affinities, and (iii) biotransformation
of precursors.