Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and their Ecological Effects on Reproduction and Development: A Review
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Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances capable of interfering with the normal functioning of the endocrine system, thereby causing adverse effects on reproduction, development, metabolism, and other physiological processes in humans and wildlife. The widespread use of these chemicals in agriculture, industry, pharmaceuticals, plastics, and personal care products has led to their ubiquitous presence in terrestrial and aquatic environments, raising significant ecological and public health concerns. This study examined endocrine disrupting chemicals and their ecological effects on reproduction and development. Specifically, the study discussed the concept, characteristics, historical development, classification, sources, and types of endocrine disrupting chemicals. It also reviewed the mechanisms through which endocrine disrupting chemicals disrupt endocrine functions, including hormone mimicry, receptor blocking, alteration of hormone synthesis and metabolism, epigenetic modifications, and transgenerational effects. Environmental pathways such as agricultural runoff, industrial effluents, municipal wastewater, atmospheric deposition, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification were highlighted. The study further examined the ecological impacts of endocrine disrupting chemicals on aquatic organisms, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, as well as their implications for human health, including reproductive disorders, hormone-dependent cancers, neurodevelopmental abnormalities, metabolic diseases, and thyroid dysfunction. Methods employed in the detection and monitoring of endocrine disrupting chemicals, control and management strategies, and emerging research issues were also discussed. The study concluded that endocrine disrupting chemicals pose substantial threats to biodiversity, ecosystem stability, and human wellbeing, necessitating strengthened regulatory frameworks, improved environmental monitoring, sustainable chemical management practices, and continued research to mitigate their adverse effects.
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