Neuroendocrine targets of endocrine disruptors.
The central neuroendocrine systems are responsible for the control of homeostatic processes in the body, including reproduction, growth, metabolism and energy balance, as well as stress responsiveness. These processes are initiated by signals in the central nervous system, specifically the hypothalamus, and are conveyed first by neural and then by endocrine effectors. The neuroendocrine systems, as the links between the brain and peripheral endocrine organs, play critical roles in the ability of an organism to respond to its environment under normal circumstances. When neuroendocrine homeostasis is disrupted by environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals, a variety of perturbations can ensue, particularly when endocrine disruption occurs during critical developmental time periods. This article will discuss the evidence for environmental endocrine disruption of neuroendocrine systems and the effects on endocrine and reproductive functions.
Gore
Andrea C
AC
Center for Molecular and Cellular Toxicology, Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas, Austin, USA. andrea.gore@mail.utexas.edu
D000818:Animals; D052244:Endocrine Disruptors / Q000633:toxicity*; D004700:Endocrine System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006706:Homeostasis / Q000187:drug effects; D006801:Humans; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000187:drug effects; D008297:Male; D055099:Neuroendocrine Cells / Q000187:drug effects; D009490:Neurosecretory Systems / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000502:physiology; D010913:Pituitary-Adrenal System / Q000187:drug effects; D012098:Reproduction / Q000187:drug effects; D012733:Sex Differentiation / Q000187:drug effects; D013961:Thyroid Gland / Q000187:drug effects
D052244:Endocrine Disruptors