Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026
In vivo Characterization of Endocrine Disrupting Chemical Effects via Thyroid Hormone Action Indicator Mouse
Published on: October 6, 2023
Targeted toxicological testing to investigate the role of endocrine disrupters in puberty disorders
Francesca Maranghi1, Alberto Mantovani
1Food and Veterinary Toxicology Unit, Dept. Food Safety and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299 00161 Rome, Italy. francesca.maranghi@iss.it
Abstract:
Puberty is a process regulated by the endocrine system which physiological onset is poorly understood. Factors potentially leading to the disruption of this system may seriously affect the reproductive function development. Altered puberty onset can be an unspecific consequence of general toxicity in juvenile rodents; however, several toxicological studies indicate potential effects of specific substances on puberty development. In particular, the exposure to endocrine disrupters (ED) showing (anti)estrogenic, (anti)androgenic activity or interaction with hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is considered biologically plausible and deserving attention. Risk assessment agencies call for data on children effects for their specific vulnerability or specific exposure situations. On the other hand, no international effort is foreseen to develop robust tools for characterizing chemical hazards in the immature organisms. For some chemicals the available data might be sufficient to trigger precautionary measures but a sound risk analysis needs an interdisciplinary integration between human medicine and experimental toxicology.
Insights
The endocrine system regulates puberty, but its onset is not fully understood. Exposure to endocrine disruptors can impact reproductive development, necessitating further research and risk assessment for vulnerable populations.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Toxicology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Puberty onset is regulated by the endocrine system, with its precise physiological triggers remaining unclear.
- Disruptions to the endocrine system during development can significantly impair reproductive function.
- Altered puberty can result from general toxicity or specific chemical exposures, particularly endocrine disruptors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential impact of endocrine disruptors on puberty development.
- To address the need for data on the effects of chemicals on immature organisms for risk assessment.
- To emphasize the importance of integrating human medicine and experimental toxicology for a comprehensive analysis.
Main Methods:
- Review of toxicological studies on puberty development.
- Analysis of endocrine disrupter (ED) effects, including anti-estrogenic and anti-androgenic activities.
- Examination of interactions with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.
Main Results:
- Exposure to endocrine disruptors with (anti)estrogenic or (anti)androgenic activity is biologically plausible to affect puberty.
- Existing toxicological data suggest specific chemicals can interfere with puberty development.
- Risk assessment agencies require data on children's vulnerability to chemical exposures.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of puberty onset and disruption.
- Developing robust tools for assessing chemical hazards in immature organisms is crucial.
- An interdisciplinary approach integrating human medicine and experimental toxicology is essential for sound risk analysis of endocrine disruptors.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Toxicity Testing in Animals
01:27Signs of Puberty
01:21Toxicokinetics: Overview