Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 7, 2025
07:08
Long-term Behavioral and Reproductive Consequences of Embryonic Exposure to Low-dose Toxicants
Published on: March 6, 2018
6.3K
Perinatal Exposure to Phthalates: From Endocrine to Neurodevelopment Effects
Laura Lucaccioni1, Viola Trevisani2, Erica Passini2
1Pediatric Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences of the Mothers, Children and Adults, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41124 Modena, Italy.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|April 30, 2021
Summary
Phthalates, endocrine disrupting chemicals, harm infant neurodevelopment. Exposure during pregnancy and early life can lead to cognitive and behavioral issues, impacting long-term health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Endocrinology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Phthalates are endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) that can disrupt hormone homeostasis.
- Infants are particularly vulnerable to phthalate exposure due to their developing systems and higher exposure levels.
- Exposure during critical developmental windows (prenatal, early postnatal) poses significant risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and update current knowledge on the neuroendocrine effects of phthalate exposure in neonates and during the perinatal period.
- To highlight the impact of phthalates on neurodevelopment and associated health outcomes.
- To emphasize the need for further research into phthalate's role in neuroendocrine disruption.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on phthalate exposure and neuroendocrine outcomes.
- Analysis of research focusing on critical developmental windows.
- Synthesis of evidence linking phthalates to behavioral and cognitive disorders.
Main Results:
- Phthalate exposure can interfere with crucial neuroendocrine systems, including thyroid hormone signaling.
- Disruptions in neuronal differentiation and maturation are linked to phthalate exposure.
- Increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autistic behaviors, and impaired cognitive development is associated with phthalates.
Conclusions:
- Phthalates significantly impact neuroendocrine system development and function.
- Neonatal and perinatal phthalate exposure poses risks for behavioral and cognitive disorders.
- Further research is essential to fully elucidate the long-term consequences of phthalate exposure.
Keywords:
endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs)endocrine endpointsneurodevelopmentnewbornphthalatesprenatal exposureMore Related Videos
08:28Assessment of the Effects of Endocrine Disrupting Compounds on the Development of Vertebrate Neural Network Function Using Multi-electrode Arrays
Published on: April 26, 2018
6.2K
06:46Collection of Alfalfa Root Exudates to Study the Impact of Di2-ethylhexyl Phthalate on Metabolite Production
Published on: June 2, 2023
2.0K
Related Concept Videos
01:07Teratogenicity
3.6K
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...
3.6K
01:36Types of Toxins
2.8K
Humans continually engage with an environment rich in potentially harmful chemicals. These are introduced to our bodies through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. These chemicals exist in various forms, such as air and environmental pollutants, agricultural chemicals, organic solvents, and heavy metals.
Air pollutants, primarily gases, pose significant threats to respiratory health, leading to conditions like hypoxia, lung cancer, and in extreme cases, death.
Environmental pollutants like...
Air pollutants, primarily gases, pose significant threats to respiratory health, leading to conditions like hypoxia, lung cancer, and in extreme cases, death.
Environmental pollutants like...
2.8K
01:24Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Metabolism
57
In pediatric care, understanding the nuances of hepatic drug metabolism is crucial, as it significantly differs from that of adults. This divergence is primarily due to the developmental stage of drug-metabolizing enzymes, which affects how medications are processed in the body. In neonates, for instance, the activity of Phase I enzymes—critical for the initial breakdown of drugs—is markedly reduced, functioning at just 20–40% of the levels seen in adults. This reduction poses...
57
01:26Toxic Reactions: Overview
1.5K
When toxic substances penetrate the human body, they disseminate to various tissues, undergoing metabolic changes. This process yields reactive metabolites that may covalently bind with specific target molecules, resulting in toxicity.
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...
Toxicity falls into two primary categories: local and systemic.
Local toxicity appears at the exposure site, such as protein denaturation caused by caustic substances.
In contrast, systemic toxicity requires the toxic agent's absorption and distribution,...
1.5K
01:30Neurulation
43.6K
Neurulation is the embryological process which forms the precursors of the central nervous system and occurs after gastrulation has established the three primary cell layers of the embryo: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. In humans, the majority of this system is formed via primary neurulation, in which the central portion of the ectoderm—originally appearing as a flat sheet of cells—folds upwards and inwards, sealing off to form a hollow neural tube. As development proceeds, the...
43.6K
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
508
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....
508