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Exposure to PBB-153 and Digit Ratio
Tamar Wainstock1, Brad Pearce2, Dana B Barr3
1Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Public Health, Ben Gurion University of The Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
Early Human Development
|July 31, 2016
Summary
The 2D:4D digit ratio, determined by prenatal hormones, was linked to prenatal exposure to Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs) in adult women. This study suggests environmental chemicals may influence this sexually dimorphic trait.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Human Biology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- The second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is a recognized sexually dimorphic trait.
- This ratio is established in utero and correlates with prenatal sex steroid hormone levels.
- Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs) are synthetic chemicals with suspected endocrine-disrupting properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between prenatal exposure to Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBBs) and the 2D:4D digit ratio in adult women.
- To explore potential environmental influences on a known sexually dimorphic biological marker.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of adult digit ratios (2D:4D).
- Assessment of prenatal PBB exposure levels.
- Statistical correlation between PBB levels and digit ratio in female participants.
Main Results:
- A significant association was identified between prenatal PBB levels and the 2D:4D digit ratio in adult women.
- The findings suggest that environmental endocrine disruptors may impact digit ratio development.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal exposure to Polybrominated Biphenyls is associated with alterations in the 2D:4D digit ratio in women.
- This research highlights a potential link between environmental chemical exposure and human developmental biology.
