Identification of a PFAS hyperaccumulator and elucidation of its translocation mechanism for sustainable phytoremediation

Remediation of soils contaminated by the globally concerning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is imperative yet challenging. Herein, we identify a PFAS hyperaccumulator, the herbaceous Oenothera rosea, in soil near a fluorochemical facility and demonstrate root-to-shoot translocation factors of 3.07 − 58.6 for 18 distinct PFAS. Comparative hydroponic/pot experiments using conspecifics from non-polluted areas confirm that hyperaccumulation arises from domestication after prolonged PFAS exposure. Root cell wall pectin and hemicellulose are critical PFAS binding sites, significantly affecting root-to-shoot translocation. Subcellular and transcriptomic analyses reveal that the hyperaccumulating O. rosea undergoes minimal cell wall remodeling under PFAS stress, a signature of adaptive evolution. Life cycle assessment further validates the environmental superiority of an integrated strategy combining O. rosea phytoremediation with biomass pyrolysis for PFAS destruction and biochar production, achieving a net-negative carbon footprint (–17.9 kg CO2/ton soil). Our work provides a comprehensive framework for PFAS remediation, from hyperaccumulator identification to sustainable field application. Phytoremediation of PFAS contaminated soils is limited by the lack of hyperaccumulators. Here, the authors identify an acclimated PFAS hyperaccumulator, Oenothera rosea, and propose a sustainable remediation strategy by elucidating hyperaccumulation mechanism and presenting a life cycle assessment.