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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
07:08
Long-term Behavioral and Reproductive Consequences of Embryonic Exposure to Low-dose Toxicants
Published on: March 6, 2018
Bisphenol A: Perinatal exposure and body weight
1Department of Anatomy and Cellular Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, United States. beverly.rubin@tufts.edu
Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
|May 13, 2009
Summary
Bisphenol A (BPA), found in plastics, is ingested by most people. Early exposure to BPA may affect body weight and fat, but the exact mechanisms require further study.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Bisphenol A (BPA) is a common plastic component leaching into food and beverages.
- Widespread human exposure is confirmed, with BPA detected in 92.6% of US urine samples.
- In vitro and in vivo studies suggest BPA's potential role in influencing body weight and adiposity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential impact of Bisphenol A (BPA) on body weight regulation.
- To explore the mechanisms by which perinatal BPA exposure may lead to persistent effects on body weight and adiposity.
Main Methods:
- Review of in vitro studies on adipocyte differentiation, lipid accumulation, glucose transport, and adiponectin secretion.
- Analysis of in vivo rodent studies examining dose-dependent and sex-dependent effects of perinatal BPA exposure on body weight.
Main Results:
- In vitro data indicate BPA affects key adipocyte functions.
- In vivo studies demonstrate perinatal BPA exposure influences body weight in a dose- and sex-dependent manner in rodents.
Conclusions:
- Perinatal exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) may have lasting effects on body weight and adiposity.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying BPA's influence on body weight regulation.
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