Labrys portucalensis F11: PFAS Fighter

Recent studies have identified a bacterial strain with remarkable potential to degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” Researchers from the University at Buffalo have pinpointed Labrys portucalensis F11 (F11) as a key player in breaking down these persistent contaminants.

Understanding PFAS and Their Environmental Impact

• PFAS have been widely used since the 1950s.
• These chemicals are prevalent in products like nonstick cookware and firefighting foams.
• Their robust carbon-fluorine bonds make them highly resistant to natural degradation.
• Due to their persistence, PFAS accumulate in water and soil, posing environmental and health risks.

Discovery and Capabilities of Labrys portucalensis F11

• The F11 strain was originally isolated from contaminated soil in Portugal.
• It has demonstrated the ability to metabolize various pollutants, including pharmaceuticals.
• Until now, its effectiveness in degrading PFAS remained unexplored.
• Laboratory tests confirmed that F11 could break down more than 90% of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) within 100 days.

How F11 Works: Mechanism of Action

• F11 degrades PFAS by cleaving carbon-fluorine bonds.
• The bacteria not only break down PFOS but also remove fluorine from its byproducts.
• This dual mechanism enhances the efficiency of PFAS degradation.
• Elevated fluoride levels in test samples confirmed the bond cleavage process.

Experimental Testing and Results

• Researchers incubated F11 in sealed flasks where PFAS served as the sole carbon source.
• Over time, the strain showcased significant degradation abilities:
  • 90% reduction of PFOS within 100 days.
  • 58% degradation of 5:3 fluorotelomer carboxylic acid.
  • 21% breakdown of 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate.

Challenges and Future Research

• F11 requires prolonged exposure to achieve effective PFAS degradation.
• Current experiments lack competing carbon sources, which may differ from real-world conditions.
• Future research aims to refine the process and introduce nutrient support to enhance F11’s efficiency in natural settings.

Potential Applications in Environmental Remediation

• Bioaugmentation strategies could incorporate F11 into contaminated sites or wastewater treatment systems.
• Implementing F11 in treatment plants may significantly improve PFAS removal.
• The research team emphasizes the need for further microbial studies to develop sustainable PFAS remediation solutions.

Labrys portucalensis F11 represents a promising tool in the fight against persistent environmental pollutants, offering hope for a cleaner future.