Elucidating the links between endocrine disruptors and neurodevelopment
Thaddeus T Schug1, Ashley M Blawas, Kimberly Gray
1Division of Extramural Research and Training (T.T.S., K.G., J.J.H., C.P.L.), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709; and Duke University (A.M.B.), Durham, North Carolina 27708.
Endocrinology
|February 26, 2015
Summary
Environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals may impact child neurodevelopment. Research explores links between these chemicals and neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting brain function and disease risk.
Area of Science:
- Environmental health
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
Background:
- 12% of US children have neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).
- NDDs have multifactorial causes including genetics, nutrition, and toxicants.
- Early-life exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can alter brain development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on EDCs and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
- To identify approaches for studying EDC-neurodevelopment links.
- To understand how EDCs affect brain function and disease susceptibility.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research.
- Analysis of studies on environmental chemical exposures.
- Focus on endocrine disruption mechanisms.
Main Results:
- EDC exposure is a potential risk factor for NDDs.
- EDCs can interfere with critical developmental processes in the brain.
- Altered brain function and increased disease susceptibility are observed.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to confirm EDC-NDD associations.
- Understanding EDC mechanisms is crucial for prevention.
- Protecting children from EDCs may mitigate NDD risk.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Gut-Brain Axis
125
The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such...
125
01:07Teratogenicity
4.6K
The ability of a drug to produce structural deformations and functional abnormalities in the developing embryo or the fetus is called teratogenicity, and the drug producing this effect is known as a teratogen. Teratogenic effects include stillbirth, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, and neurocognitive delay. A teratogen may affect the embryo at different stages of development, which is important in determining the type and extent of the damage. During blastocyst formation, the early...
4.6K
01:10An Overview of the Endocrine System
20.4K
The endocrine system, a complex network of glands, orchestrates physiological balance within the body through the production and secretion of hormones. These hormones are chemical messengers in intercellular communication, acting as conduits between the secretory cells and distant target sites. They traverse the circulatory system by being released into the extracellular fluid, and their impact is specific to cells possessing receptors for a particular hormone.
The endocrine system collaborates...
The endocrine system collaborates...
20.4K
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
1.4K
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings....
1.4K
01:21Smooth Endoplasmic Reticulum
9.0K
Smooth endoplasmic reticulum or smooth ER is a sub-organelle with specialized functions in animal cells and plant cells. It is often associated with the tubule morphology of the endoplasmic reticulum.
The ER provides optimal conditions for synthesizing steroid hormones and lipids, such as phospholipids and triglycerides. Traditionally, lipid metabolism was considered to be a smooth ER function. However, there is no direct evidence to prove that rough ER is completely excluded from lipid...
The ER provides optimal conditions for synthesizing steroid hormones and lipids, such as phospholipids and triglycerides. Traditionally, lipid metabolism was considered to be a smooth ER function. However, there is no direct evidence to prove that rough ER is completely excluded from lipid...
9.0K
01:43Sex Linked Disorders
29.8K
29.8K