Table 5.
Examples of Different Classes of Endocrine Disruptors (EDs) Known to Alter Functions of Both the Reproductive and Immune Systems.
| Compound/Source | Hormone Activity | Reproductive/Immune Effects | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zearalenone (ZEN)/fungal micotoxin in cereal crops | Binds estrogen receptors | Decreased fertility; altered Estradiol and Progesterone levels; Decrease in IL-8 synthesis by PMNs | (EFSA 2011; Marin, et al. 2010) |
| Bisphenol A (BPA)/poly-carbonate plastics, polystyrene | Estrogen agonist; androgen/thyroid hormone antagonist | Accelerates puberty onset, altered estrous cyclicity (permanent estrus); Alters IFN-γ, immunoglobulin and interleukin production | (Fernandez, et al. 2009; Sawai, et al. 2003; Yoshino, et al. 2004; Yoshino, et al. 2003) |
| 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), Industrial chemical | Binds aryl hydrocarbon receptor; anti-estrogenic | Inhibits CD4+ T cell differentiation into T helper effector cells; Inhibits uterine epithelial mitogenesis. | (Buchanan, et al. 2002; Marshall and Kerkvliet 2010) |
| DDT, organochlorine/insecticide | Binds estrogen receptor, antiandrogenic | Humoral immune suppression; stimulates the production of NO and proinflammatory cytokines; Reduces Lymphocytes; Adverse fertility effects | (Kim, et al. 2004; Lahvis, et al. 1995; Tiemann 2008) |
| Genistein, phytoestrogen | Binds Estrogen Receptor | Impairs oocyte maturation and embryonic growth; fish sex reversal; Increases in the activities of cytotoxic T cells and NK cells; Suppresses Humoral immunity and alters thymocyte development. |
(Chan 2009; Guo, et al. 2001; Kiparissis, et al. 2003; Scholz and Gutzeit 2000; Vodkova, et al. 2008; Yellayi, et al. 2002) |