Scientists discover photosynthetic BACTERIA that could help combat toxic “forever chemicals” Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln identified Rhodopseudomonas palustris, a photosynthetic bacterium, capable of absorbing perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a hazardous PFAS (“forever chemical”), removing 44% from water in 20 days. However, some PFOA was later released back into the environment as cells broke down. While the bacteria did not fully degrade PFAS, the findings suggest a possible stepwise mechanism where microbes could trap contaminants in their membranes. Future research may explore genetic engineering to enhance retention or enable full degradation. The study combined microbiology, chemical engineering and environmental science, leveraging specialized PFAS detection methods and biological testing to advance sustainable cleanup…

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