Effects of Prenatal Exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals

Endocrine disruptors such as bisphenols, phthalates and perfluorinated compounds are known to affect several body functions. The impact of prenatal exposure to these chemicals carries a significant impact since the developing fetus is highly susceptible to even low levels of these chemicals as they percolate through their system. They do not have adequate mechanisms in place to process and excrete these chemicals effectively thereby increasing their vulnerability to the effects of these chemicals. These chemicals are capable of not only affecting the functions of various organs but can also induce epigenetic changes that can affect the function of these organs in the long term. These effects are apparent when the offspring reach adulthood, especially when they are challenged with specific compromising environmental factors such as consumption of high fat or high energy foods or other environmental compounds and endocrine disruptors. The intensity of these effects can vary from mild to severe depending on the compounds and environmental factors involved. The cellular and molecular mechanisms can also vary widely from changes in receptor expression, increased expression of free-radical related proteins to altered secretion of various hormones leading to dysregulation of homeostatic functions. These changes could impact the placenta, the transfer of nutrients and metabolites, and induce changes in the fetus with respect to development and function of reproductive organs. These can also precipitate to conditions such as obesity, hypertension, stroke, autism, behavioral issues, and autoimmune disorders.

This special issue will include articles addressing the effects of prenatal exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals on reproductive, metabolic, cardiovascular, renal, immune, and central nervous system effects.