Toxicity evaluation of 2-hydroxybiphenyl and other compounds involved in studies of fossil fuels biodesulphurisation

► Acute and chronic toxicity of compounds involved in BDS studies was evaluated. ► IC50 values obtained for some hydrocarbons showed high toxicity levels. ► The sensitivity/resistance ability to 2-HBP is related with the bacterial growth rate. ► Microorganisms exhibiting faster generation times could be more resistant to 2-HBP. ► The response of both strains to 2-HBP supports their potential to be used for BDS.