What is the Origin of Term 28?

The term originated in the field of environmental toxicology and endocrinology following observations of reproductive and developmental abnormalities in wildlife exposed to environmental pollutants. The subsequent realization that human health could also be impacted by these ubiquitous compounds led to intense research and the formal classification of EDCs. Their action highlights the vulnerability of the human endocrine system to external chemical interference.

What is the Mechanism of Term 28?

EDCs exert their disruptive effects primarily by interacting with hormone receptors, often acting as selective agonists or antagonists. For example, some EDCs can bind to the estrogen receptor, mimicking the effect of natural estrogen, while others can block the thyroid hormone receptor, preventing T3 from exerting its metabolic effects. Furthermore, EDCs can alter hormone metabolism by inducing or inhibiting key steroidogenic or detoxification enzymes, leading to inappropriate levels of active hormones in circulation and target tissues.

Term 28 ∞ Area

Term 28

Meaning

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are a class of exogenous substances, found in the environment, food, and consumer products, that interfere with the synthesis, secretion, transport, binding, action, or elimination of natural hormones in the body. These chemicals, such as phthalates, bisphenols, and certain pesticides, can mimic, block, or alter the activity of endogenous hormones, even at very low exposure levels. Clinically, EDCs are a significant concern as they are implicated in various hormonal disorders, including fertility issues, metabolic dysfunction, and hormone-sensitive cancers.