Effect of Endocrine Disruptors on Human Reproductive Health

Abstract

Endocrine disruptors (EDs) are naturally occurring compounds or man-made substances that interfere with the function of endocrine system of the body. EDs may be any estrogen-like and antiandrogenic chemicals, environmental agents [e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), dioxin, and some pesticides)] or biological stressors like oxidative stress or pharmacological agents like radiation and drugs. These molecules elicit their action by mimicking, blocking and triggering actions of hormones and disturb entire neuro-endocrine equilibrium. EDs may be blamed for functional abnormalities include decreased semen quality, reduced numbers of sperm, disrupted estrous or menstrual cycle and premature menopause, behavioral abnormalities include altered sexual behavior decreased libido and infertility. The present review describes various factors contributing bioaccumulation of EDs and their possible effect on human reproductive function.