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Updated: Sep 17, 2025

Long-term Behavioral and Reproductive Consequences of Embryonic Exposure to Low-dose Toxicants
Published on: March 6, 2018
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and epigenetic regulation in embryonic development: Mechanisms, impacts, and
Clinton Ayodeji Akanbi1,2, Damilare Emmanuel Rotimi3,4, Adebola Busola Ojo5
1Good Health and Wellbeing Research Clusters (SDG 03), Bowen University, Iwo 232102, Nigeria.
Abstract:
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are prevalent ecological pollutants that interfere with hormonal systems and pose serious health risks to the public, especially during critical developmental windows. Well-known EDCs, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, can alter gene regulation and induce epigenetic modifications that worsen reproductive and developmental disorders. This review explores the intricate relationships that exist among epigenetic mechanisms, EDCs, and embryonic development, with a focus on significant modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA dynamics that are critical for cellular differentiation. We review the possible health implications of EDC-induced epigenetic changes, focusing on how they could increase susceptibility to diseases. In addition, we provide a critical review of the available treatments aimed at reversing these epigenetic changes and highlight the groundbreaking technologies of high-throughput sequencing and CRISPR-based epigenome editing that are redefining the understanding of EDC effects. This thorough analysis highlights the necessity of efficient regulations that lower EDC exposure as well as the possibility of customized preventative measures to ensure developmental safety.
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