Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 6, 2025

A Microplate Assay to Assess Chemical Effects on RBL-2H3 Mast Cell Degranulation: Effects of Triclosan without Use of an Organic Solvent
Published on: November 1, 2013
Triclosan: A Small Molecule with Controversial Roles.
Maria Stefania Sinicropi1, Domenico Iacopetta1, Jessica Ceramella1
1Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende, Italy.
Triclosan (TCS), an antimicrobial, is widely used but potentially harmful. This review examines the pros and cons of TCS use in humans, considering its environmental presence and debated toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Triclosan (TCS) is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial found in many consumer and medical products.
- Its widespread use leads to environmental ubiquity and potential bioaccumulation due to lipophilicity.
- TCS is classified as an endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC), raising health concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the advantages and disadvantages of triclosan (TCS) use in humans.
- To assess the current understanding of TCS toxicity and its long-term effects.
- To inform whether the use of TCS is advisable.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on triclosan (TCS).
- Analysis of reports on TCS toxicity, environmental presence, and potential health impacts.
- Examination of regulatory actions and emerging therapeutic applications of TCS.
Main Results:
- TCS is effective in products like toothpaste for oral health.
- Concerns exist regarding its endocrine-disrupting potential and environmental persistence.
- Regulatory bodies have restricted its use in certain products, but its application in others continues.
Conclusions:
- The overall risk-benefit profile of triclosan (TCS) remains debated.
- Further research is needed to clarify the long-term effects of low-concentration TCS exposure in mammals.
- Emerging research suggests potential therapeutic uses for TCS, warranting careful consideration.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Chemical Agents for Microbial Control
Gene Regulation in Microbial Communities: Quorum Sensing
Hand hygiene
Hand washing...
Surface Membrane Barriers
The outer layer of the skin, the epidermis, is a robust barrier comprising layers of closely packed keratinized cells. This dense arrangement prevents microbes from penetrating the body. The periodic shedding of epidermal cells...
Antimicrobial Effectiveness
siRNA - Small Interfering RNAs
In the cytoplasm, siRNA is processed from a double-stranded RNA, which comes from either endogenous DNA transcription or exogenous sources like a virus. This double-stranded RNA is then cleaved by the...

