Plasticizer endocrine disruption: Highlighting developmental and reproductive effects in mammals and non-mammalian aquatic species

Abstract

Due to their versatility, robustness, and low production costs, plastics are used in a wide variety of applications. Plasticizers are mixed with polymers to increase flexibility of plastics. However, plasticizers are not covalently bound to plastics, and thus leach from products into the environment. Several studies have reported that two common plasticizers, bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, induce adverse health effects in vertebrates; however few studies have addressed their toxicity to non-mammalian species. The aim of this review is to compare the effects of plasticizers in animals, with a focus on aquatic species. In summary, we identified three main chains of events that occur in animals exposed to BPA and phthalates. Firstly, plasticizers affect development by altering both the thyroid hormone and growth hormone axes. Secondly, these chemicals interfere with reproduction by decreasing cholesterol transport through the mitochondrial membrane, leading to reduced steroidogenesis. Lastly, exposure to plasticizers leads to the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, the increase of fatty acid oxidation, and the reduction in the ability to cope with the augmented oxidative stress leading to reproductive organ malformations, reproductive defects, and decreased fertility.

Effects of Gender on the Association of Urinary Phthalate Metabolites with Thyroid Hormones in Children: A Prospective Cohort Study in Taiwan

“…Moreover, numerous toxicology studies have been conducted only in animals [11,12,13,14]. Serum levels of free thyroxine (T4) and total triiodothyronine (T3) in adult men were negatively associated with concentrations of DEHP metabolites [15].…”

The toxic effects and possible mechanisms of Bisphenol A on oocyte maturation of porcine in vitro

“…Because some of these substances can mimic and alter the actions of endogenous hormones, some potentially disrupting endocrine function in humans thereby they are referred to as endocrine disruptors (EDC) [1, 2]. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (diethyl-hexyl phthalate, DEHP) is widely used as a plasticizer in manufacturing products made by polyvinyl compounds, and it is an estrogen-like chemical [3, 4].…”

Evaporating Cooling System : A Review

“…In the UK alone, more than 5 million tonns of plastic are consumed each year, of which an estimated mere 24% makes it into recycling systems. That leaves a remaining 3.8 million tonns of waste, destined for landfills [16]. Plastic reduction efforts have occurred in some areas in attempts to reduce plastic consumption and pollution and promote plastic recycling.…”