Study Notes on Endocrine Disruptors: Pesticides and Plastics

Pesticides: Substances that kill, repel, or control forms of animal and plant life considered to be damaging or a nuisance in agriculture and domestic life.

Herbicides: Chemicals that destroy or control unwanted vegetation, commonly applied to lawns and fields.

Insecticides: Agents that kill or control insects, utilized across agricultural, industrial, and household contexts.

Fungicides: Chemicals that control fungi, used on plants and surfaces where mold or mildew are problematic, thus protecting crops.

Plasticizers (Phthalates): Chemicals added to materials (like plastics) to enhance softness, flexibility, and reduce viscosity, found in food packaging, toys, medical devices, and adhesives.

Organs/Organ Systems Affected by Endocrine Disruptors: These chemicals can influence various organs and organ systems, including the reproductive system, cardiovascular system, and brain, by interfering with hormone production and action.

General Mechanism for Endocrine Disruption: Endocrine disruptors interfere with the function of the endocrine system, which may include altering hormone levels, mimicking hormones, blocking hormone receptors, and causing imbalances that affect various cell and biological processes.

Population Susceptibility: Populations particularly susceptible to endocrine disruption include pregnant women, developing children, and individuals with weakened immune systems, as hormonal changes during these life stages can have profound effects.

Examples of Chemicals/Compounds with Endocrine Disruptive Capabilities: Common disruptors include Atrazine, Bisphenol A (BPA), Dioxins, Perchlorate, Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), Phthalates, Phytoestrogens, Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), and Triclosan.