Unit 8: (8.3) Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine disruptors

Chemicals that interfere with the normal functioning of hormones in an animal's body. Common sources are chemicals used in plastic manufacturing, pesticides, and human pharmaceutical drugs.

Gender imbalances

Skewed ratios of males to females in populations, particularly as a result of endocrine disruptor pollution

Estrogen Mimickers

Chemicals that mimic the effects of estrogen and can lead to the feminization of males

Atrazine

most widely used herbicide in US on corn and cereal grains, as well as golf courses, sugar cane, and Christmas trees. Endocrine disruptor. Found in rain and surface waters nearly everywhere in the US. Causes feminization of amphibians and fish, particularly frogs.

DDT

an insecticide that is also toxic to animals and humans. Banned in the 70's but still persists in many ecosystems today

Phthalates

found in cosmetics, deodorants, and many plastics used for food packaging, children's toys, and medical devices. Cause kidney & liver damage, cancer, low sperm count, and feminization. Endocrine disruptor.

PCBs

synthetic chemicals containing chlorine that are used in the manufacture of plastics and other industrial products, become stored in the tissue of animals, and also persist in the environment. Banned long ago, but still persist in animal tissues, waters, and soils.

PBDEs

synthetic compunds that provide fire retardant properties and are used in a diverse array of consumer products including computers tvs plastics and furniture. Endocrine disruptors.

Feminization

The development of female traits, often in males from the effects of an endocrine disruptor

pharmaceutical

relating to drugs developed for medical use. Pharmaceutical compounds that pass through the human body and go through waste water treatment plants often still make it to natural bodies of water and are endocrine disruptors