Modeling the dispersion of endocrine disruptors in the Santos Estuarine System (Sao Paulo State, Brazil)

Abstract

Estrogens are hormones responsible for growth and reproduction. They are naturally synthesized by animals and humans alike. Xenoestrogens are identical to natural hormones, but they are man-made and used as oral contraceptives. Xenoestrogens are a specific group of drugs found in domestic wastewater and some environmental matrices. These compounds remain after conventional sewage treatment and, consequently, affect both the environment and non-target aquatic organisms. In this study, we used the Delft3D hydrodynamic model to estimate the amount of both natural and synthetic estrogens that have been released in the Estuarine System of Santos and São Vicente and the Santos Bay. The data on flow from the sewage treatment plants and on average concentrations of natural and synthetic estrogens released in aquatic environments were obtained from the literature. The results of the modeling showed higher concentrations of estrogens in the estuarine waters of the Largo Pompeba region, the São Vicente Canal, and the Santos Bay, which are regions that receive greater inflows of domestic sewage. The results also suggest that higher concentrations of estrogenic compounds are expected to be found in areas with higher levels of salinity.

Multiresidue determination and predicted risk assessment of contaminants of emerging concern in marine sediments from the vicinities of submarine sewage outfalls

“…In a north-eastern Brazilian sewage treatment facility, E1 was the most abundant estrogenic compound in influent and effluent, indicating its major excretion by humans as well as its resistance to degradation (Pessoa et al, 2014). Using dispersion modelling for estrogens, Gimliani et al (2016) had verified that E1 can be dispersed in higher amounts than those estimated for EE2 and E2 in the aqueous phase of Santos Bay. In our study, E1 was detected in sediments from the vicinities of the diffusers of 6 of the 7 SSOs that receive effluents treated to a primary level.…”

Shell alterations in limpets as putative biomarkers for multi-impacted coastal areas

“…Thus, bias may arise from differences among these parameters. Sites sampled in this study are located within an area not subject to significant salinity variations throughout the year (Gimiliani et al, 2016). They were also subject to similar hydrodynamics in order to minimize misinterpretations due to abiotic factors.…”

“…Therefore, in the present study, the sampling strategy was established to minimize bias related these parameters. The samples were simultaneously obtained along a gradient with less than 5 km of extension and without spatial salinity variations (Gimiliani et al, 2016). In addition, the organisms were caught in rocky shores with similar patterns of lithology, wave exposure and community structure (including predatory pressures).…”

Effect of Seasonal Changes on Steroid Hormones Concentrations in the Golden Horn Estuary (Sea of Marmara, Turkey)

“…17β-estradiol and estrone are natural hormones are secreted by women. 17αethynylestradiol is a synthetic compound that is widely used in contraceptive pills and animal feed (Gimiliani et al 2016). Estrogen hormones have a low biodegradability.…”