Endocrine Disruptors and Estrogens in Human Prostatic Tissue

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Endocrinology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are environmental chemicals interfering with hormonal systems.
• EDs may adversely affect the reproductive system and prostate via estrogenic or antiandrogenic actions.
• Intraprostatic ED levels alongside steroids are significant for understanding prostate health.

Purpose of the Study:

• Develop and validate a method for quantifying estrogens, EDs, and phytoestrogens in prostate tissue.
• Analyze unconjugated and conjugated forms of these compounds.
• Investigate the presence and levels of these substances in human prostate samples.

Main Methods:

• Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was employed for analysis.
• The method quantified 20 compounds, including estrogens, bisphenols, parabens, oxybenzone, nonylphenol, and phytoestrogens.
• Lower Limit of Quantifications (LLOQs) ranged from 0.017–2.86 pg/mg of tissue.

Main Results:

• Propylparaben, methylparaben, ethylparaben, Bisphenol A (BPA), and oxybenzone were frequently detected in prostate tissues.
• Propylparaben was found in 100% of tissues (conjugated and unconjugated).
• Estriol conjugate (E3C) was the most abundant estrogen detected; EDs and phytoestrogens were detected in prostate tissue for the first time.

Conclusions:

• This study presents the first detection of EDs, phytoestrogens, and estriol conjugate in human prostate tissue.
• The frequent detection of specific EDs like propylparaben warrants further investigation into their role in prostate health.
• Estrogen metabolism within the prostate requires further exploration, particularly concerning the abundance of E3C.