Comparative pharmacokinetics of perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) in rats, mice, and monkeys

Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) has been found in biological samples in wildlife and humans. The geometric mean half-life of serum elimination of PFOS in humans has been estimated to be 4.8 years (95% CI, 4.0–5.8). A series of studies was undertaken to establish pharmacokinetic parameters for PFOS in rats, mice, and monkeys after single oral and/or IV administration of K+PFOS. Animals were followed for up to 23 weeks, and pharmacokinetic parameters were determined by WinNonlin® software. Rats and mice appeared to be more effective at eliminating PFOS than monkeys. The serum elimination half-lives in the rodent species were on the order of 1–2 months; whereas, in monkeys, the serum elimination half lives approximated 4 months. Collectively, these studies provide valuable insight for human health risk assessment regarding the potential for accumulation of body burden in humans on repeated exposure to PFOS and PFOS-generating materials.

► Perfluorooctanesulfonate is found in biological samples from wildlife and humans.
► Pharmacokinetic parameters for PFOS in rats, mice, and monkeys were evaluated.
► Rats and mice appeared to be more effective at eliminating PFOS than monkeys.
► Half-lives in rodents and monkeys approximated 1–2 and 4 months, respectively.