Elucidating the links between endocrine disruptors and neurodevelopment

Endocrinology. 2015 Jun;156(6):1941-51. doi: 10.1210/en.2014-1734. Epub 2015 Feb 25.

Abstract

Recent data indicate that approximately 12% of children in the United States are affected by neurodevelopmental disorders, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning disorders, intellectual disabilities, and autism spectrum disorders. Accumulating evidence indicates a multifactorial etiology for these disorders, with social, physical, genetic susceptibility, nutritional factors, and chemical toxicants acting together to influence risk. Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during the early stages of life can disrupt normal patterns of development and thus alter brain function and disease susceptibility later in life. This article highlights research efforts and pinpoints approaches that could shed light on the possible associations between environmental chemicals that act on the endocrine system and compromised neurodevelopmental outcomes.

MeSH terms

  • Benzhydryl Compounds / toxicity
  • DDT / toxicity
  • Disease Susceptibility
  • Endocrine Disruptors / toxicity*
  • Endocrine System / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Metals, Heavy / toxicity
  • Nervous System / drug effects*
  • Pesticides / toxicity
  • Phenols / toxicity
  • Polychlorinated Biphenyls / toxicity

Substances

  • Benzhydryl Compounds
  • Endocrine Disruptors
  • Metals, Heavy
  • Pesticides
  • Phenols
  • DDT
  • Polychlorinated Biphenyls
  • bisphenol A