Mechanistic toxicity study of perfluorooctanoic acid in zebrafish suggests mitochondrial dysfunction to play a key role in PFOA toxicity

► The mode of action of PFOA was assessed using an integrative approach in zebrafish. ► PFOA affected mRNA and protein expression, liver energy stores but not reproduction. ► Results indicated altered membrane permeability and mitochondrial dysfunction. ► PFOA also decreased the mitochondrial electron transport system activity. ► Glycogen stores were depleted to compensate for inefficient aerobic respiration.