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1294538 
Journal Article 
Review 
Endocrine disruptors: from endocrine to metabolic disruption 
Casals-Casas, C; Desvergne, B 
2011 
Yes 
Annual Review of Physiology
ISSN: 0066-4278
EISSN: 1545-1585 
73 
135-162 
English 
21054169 
WOS:000288968800007 
Synthetic chemicals currently used in a variety of industrial and agricultural applications are leading to widespread contamination of the environment. Even though the intended uses of pesticides, plasticizers, antimicrobials, and flame retardants are beneficial, effects on human health are a global concern. These so-called endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can disrupt hormonal balance and result in developmental and reproductive abnormalities. New in vitro, in vivo, and epidemiological studies link human EDC exposure with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Here we review the main chemical compounds that may contribute to metabolic disruption. We then present their demonstrated or suggested mechanisms of action with respect to nuclear receptor signaling. Finally, we discuss the difficulties of fairly assessing the risks linked to EDC exposure, including developmental exposure, problems of high- and low-dose exposure, and the complexity of current chemical environments. 
persistent organic pollutants; phthalates; bisphenol A; obesity; diabetes; nuclear receptors