The project will deal with both exposure and effects assessment of perfluoro alkylated substances (PAS) molecules for a variety of organisms. Firstly the project will consist of field assessment studies focusing on perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and PAS exposure of feral fishes, birds and mammals and the investigation of the relation between exposure and biological and biochemical endpoints. Several hot spots are known in Flanders and these areas will be investigated in detail. Secondly the levels of PFOS and PAS in several bird species throughout Flanders will be investigated. Based on the mechanistic toxicological insights and the corresponding environmental exposure levels of various PAS compounds, this study will allow sound interpretation of the risks associated to the presence of these molecules in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
Responsible scientist