Estrogenic activity of phenolic additives determined by an in vitro yeast bioassay.
We used a recombinant yeast estrogen assay to assess the activity of 73 phenolic additives that are used as sunscreens, preservatives, disinfectants, antioxidants, flavorings, or for perfumery. Thirty-two of these compounds displayed activity: 22 with potencies relative to 17beta-estradiol, ranging from 1/3,000 to < 1/3,000,000, and 10 compounds with an impaired response that could not be directly compared with 17beta-estradiol. Forty-one compounds were inactive. The major criteria for activity appear to be the presence of an unhindered phenolic OH group in a para position and a molecular weight of 140-250 Da.
Miller
D
D
Centre for Environmental Research, Uxbridge, Middlesex, United Kingdom.
Wheals
B B
BB
Beresford
N
N
Sumpter
J P
JP
D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004968:Estrogens, Non-Steroidal / Q000494:pharmacology*; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D010636:Phenols / Q000494:pharmacology*; D015003:Yeasts / Q000187:drug effects*
D004968:Estrogens, Non-Steroidal; D010636:Phenols