PAH metabolites

The biotransformation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) by fish reduces the accumulation of these compounds in their tissues. As a result, the concentration of parent PAHs in fish samples does not provide an adequate assessment of PAH exposure. The analysis of PAH metabolites in the bile of fish, is considered to be a very sensitive method for the assessment of PAH exposure in laboratory and field studies.

For BEQUALM intercalibration exercises, the determination of the PAH metabolite 1-hydroxyprene will be measured in fish bile samples distributed to the participating laboratories.

Intercalibration exercises are open for the different analytical methods including: GC/MS, HPLC-fluorescence (HPLC-F), fixed wavelength fluorescence (FWF), and synchronous fluorescence spectrometry (SFS).

Forthcoming Intercalibrations

There are no intercalibrations confirmed for this period, although plans are currently being prepared. Please check back for more information.