Bacteria vs. Forever Chemicals: A Breakthrough in PFAS Degradation

Introduction

In a promising development for environmental science, researchers at the University at Buffalo have identified a bacterial strain capable of breaking down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — commonly known as “forever chemicals.” The strain, named Labrys portucalensis F11 (F11), has demonstrated the ability to degrade PFAS compounds that were once considered nearly indestructible.

🧪 What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?

• PFAS are a class of synthetic chemicals used since the 1950s
• Found in products like:
  • Nonstick cookware
  • Stain-resistant fabrics
  • Firefighting foams
• Known for their carbon-fluorine bonds, among the strongest in chemistry
• Resistant to:
  • Heat
  • Water
  • Oil
• Persist in the environment, accumulating in soil, water, and human bodies

⚠️ Linked to serious health issues including cancer, hormonal disruption, and immune system impairment

🔬 Discovery of Labrys portucalensis F11

• Origin: Isolated from PFAS-contaminated soil in Portugal
• Previously known for breaking down pharmaceutical contaminants
• New research revealed its ability to:
  • Degrade over 90% of PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid)
  • Do so within 100 days under lab conditions

⚙️ How Does F11 Work? (Mechanism of Action)

• F11 cleaves carbon-fluorine bonds — a rare and powerful capability
• Removes fluorine from both:
  • The original PFAS molecule
  • And smaller byproduct molecules
• Elevated fluoride levels in test samples confirmed successful degradation

🧫 Testing and Observations

• F11 was incubated in sealed flasks with PFAS as the only carbon source
• Degradation levels observed: PFAS CompoundDegradation (%)PFOS90%5:3 Fluorotelomer Carboxylic Acid58%6:2 Fluorotelomer Sulfonate21%

🧬 F11’s action is both selective and consistent, making it a strong candidate for real-world applications.

🧱 Challenges and Future Research

• Slow degradation rates — current process takes weeks to months
• Tested in a controlled environment, with no competing carbon sources
• Researchers aim to:
  • Optimize nutrient conditions
  • Improve degradation rates
  • Simulate real-world conditions for field applications

🌱 Potential Applications

• Bioaugmentation: Introducing F11 into contaminated soil or wastewater treatment plants
• Could complement existing PFAS filtration technologies
• Offers a biological solution to one of the world’s toughest environmental problems

🧭 Scientists advocate continued exploration of microbial tools for sustainable and cost-effective PFAS remediation

Conclusion

The discovery of Labrys portucalensis F11 brings hope in the global effort to combat PFAS pollution. While challenges remain, this breakthrough highlights the untapped potential of nature-inspired solutions to solve modern chemical crises. As research progresses, F11 could become a key ally in detoxifying ecosystems once thought beyond repair.