Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in commercial marine bivalves: Abundance, main impacts of single and combined exposure and potential impacts for human health

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are emerging pollutants with a broad distribution in marine environments. They can interact with other pollutants and be bioaccumulated by marine bivalves, which can be consumed by humans. This is the first review that focuses on the presence and effects of PAHs, single or combined with other pollutants, in commercial marine bivalves. Around the world, researchers have detected several PAHs in valuable marine bivalves and reported immunological, genotoxic, neurotoxic, physiological, reproductive, and biochemical effects in these species caused by exposure to PAHs, alone or combined with other pollutants, using efficient and accurate methods. Commercial marine bivalves contaminated with PAHs may pose a risk to marine food chains and environments and to human health. We recommend further research on the abundance and neurotoxic, physiological, reproductive and biochemical effects of PAHs, alone and with other pollutants, in commercial marine bivalves and more human health risk assessments.