Endocrine Disruptors in Food: Impact on Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Diseases

Nutrients. 2020 Apr 21;12(4):1158. doi: 10.3390/nu12041158.

Abstract

Endocrine disruptors (EDCs) have been associated with the increased incidence of metabolic disorders. In this work, we conducted a systematic review of the literature in order to identify the current knowledge of the interactions between EDCs in food, the gut microbiota, and metabolic disorders in order to shed light on this complex triad. Exposure to EDCs induces a series of changes including microbial dysbiosis and the induction of xenobiotic pathways and associated genes, enzymes, and metabolites involved in EDC metabolism. The products and by-products released following the microbial metabolism of EDCs can be taken up by the host; therefore, changes in the composition of the microbiota and in the production of microbial metabolites could have a major impact on host metabolism and the development of diseases. The remediation of EDC-induced changes in the gut microbiota might represent an alternative course for the treatment and prevention of metabolic diseases.

Keywords: endocrine disrupters; food; gut microbiota; metabolic diseases.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Dysbiosis / chemically induced
  • Endocrine Disruptors / adverse effects*
  • Endocrine Disruptors / analysis
  • Endocrine Disruptors / metabolism*
  • Food Analysis*
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Metabolic Diseases / etiology*
  • Metabolic Diseases / prevention & control

Substances

  • Endocrine Disruptors