Carcinogenic effects of bisphenol A in breast and ovarian cancers (Review)

Abstract

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous chemical compounds ubiquitously found in everyday life of the modern world. EDCs enter the human body where they act similarly to endogenous hormones, altering the functions of the endocrine system and causing adverse effects on human health. Bisphenol A (BPA), the principal representative of this class, is a carbon-based synthetic plastic, and a key element in manufacturing cans, reusable water bottles and medical equipment. BPA mimics the actions of estrogen on multiple levels by activating estrogen receptors α and β. BPA regulates various processes, such as cell proliferation, migration and apoptosis, leading to neoplastic changes. Considering genetic mechanisms, BPA exerts its functions via multiple oncogenic signaling pathways, including the STAT3, PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways. Furthermore, BPA is associated with various modifications of the reproductive system in both males and females. These alterations include benign lesions, such as endometrial hyperplasia, the development of ovarian cysts, an increase in the ductal density of mammary gland cells and other preneoplastic lesions. These benign lesions may continue to develop to breast or ovarian cancer; the effects of BPA depend on various molecular and epigenetic mechanisms that dictate whether the endocrine or reproductive system is impacted, wherein preexisting benign lesions can become cancerous. The present review supports the need for continuous research on BPA, considering its widespread use and most available data suggesting a carcinogenic effect of BPA on the female reproductive system. Although most studies on BPA have been conducted in vitro with human cells or in vivo with animal models, it can be argued that more studies should be conducted in vivo with humans to further promote understanding of the impact of BPA. Contents 1. Introduction 2. BPA: Everyday exposure 3. Key roles of BPA in the pathogenesis of multiple disorders 4. BPA: A key element in female cancers 5. Conclusions

Can Antioxidants Reduce the Toxicity of Bisphenol?

“…A link between BPA and the development of diabetes [ 39 ], anxiety, and depressive disorders [ 40 ], and an impaired functioning of the immune system has been found [ 41 ]. It can also contribute to infertility, endometriosis, and premature puberty [ 42 , 43 ]. However, BPA primarily exhibits hormone-like properties and, therefore, belongs to the class of endocrine disruptors.…”

Estrogen Receptors Mediated Negative Effects of Estrogens and Xenoestrogens in Teleost Fishes—Review

“…Bisphenol A (BPA) affinity for, and binding to, estrogen receptors, poses another threat to fish health [ 79 ] as it has been repeatedly potentially associated with carcinogenesis processes [ 79 , 80 , 81 ]. Cervantes-Comacho et al [ 82 ] showed that exposure to sub-lethal doses of BPA (1, 10, 50, and 75 mg/L) caused significant DNA damage in the viviparous fish Blackfin goodea ( Goodea atripinnis ).…”

The influence of bisphenol A on the human body

“…cell migration and apoptosis, leading to neoplastic changes. Taking into account genetic mechanisms, BPA performs its functions through many oncogenic pathways, such as the STAT3, PI3K / AKT and MAPK pathways [23].…”