Endocrine Disruption in Marine Species: Unraveling Pollution and Climate Change Effects

Anthropogenic stressors, such as pollution and climate change, have emerged as significant threats to marine organisms, particularly affecting their molecular endocrinology. These stressors introduce a myriad of toxic chemicals into marine environments through industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, and plastic debris, which interfere with endocrine signaling pathways and hormone regulation. Climate change compounds these issues by causing ocean acidification, rising sea temperatures, and altered nutrient availability, further jeopardizing the endocrine health of marine species. The consequences of these disruptions extend beyond individual organisms, potentially affecting population dynamics, species interactions, and the overall resilience of marine ecosystems. Recent studies have begun to unravel the mechanisms by which these stressors impact molecular endocrinology, offering insights into potential mitigation strategies. However, there remains a critical need for more comprehensive research to fully understand these complex interactions and to inform effective conservation efforts. Collaborative efforts among scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders are essential to develop and implement regulations and management practices that can reduce anthropogenic stressors and protect marine ecosystems.

This research topic aims to explore the intricate ways in which anthropogenic stressors impact the molecular endocrinology of marine organisms. The primary objectives include investigating the mechanisms of endocrine disruption caused by pollutants and environmental stressors, understanding the physiological and behavioral consequences of these disruptions, and comparing the susceptibility of different marine taxa to these stressors. By addressing these objectives, the research seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between anthropogenic stressors and marine endocrinology, ultimately contributing to the development of sustainable solutions for mitigating their impacts.

To gather further insights into the impact of anthropogenic stressors on molecular endocrinology in marine organisms, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Mechanisms of endocrine disruption: Investigating how pollutants and environmental stressors interfere with hormone synthesis, secretion, and signaling pathways in marine organisms.
• Physiological and behavioral consequences: Exploring the physiological and behavioral effects of endocrine disruption on marine species.
• Comparative studies: Comparing the susceptibility of different marine taxa to endocrine disruption and elucidating species-specific responses to anthropogenic stressors.
• Policy analyses: Examining regulatory frameworks and management strategies to mitigate the impact of anthropogenic stressors.
• Interdisciplinary approaches: Integrating molecular biology, ecology, and environmental science to provide a holistic understanding of the issue.