The prevalence of polymer usage in everyday activities has emerged as a detriment to both human life and the environment. A large number of studies describe severe impacts of micropolymers (MP) and nanopolymers (NP) on various organ systems, including the endocrine system. Additionally, plasticizers utilized as additives have been identified as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). MP/NP, along with associated plasticizers, affect principal signalling pathways of endocrine glands such as the pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, and gonads, thereby disrupting hormone function and metabolic processes crucial for maintaining homeostasis, fertility, neural development, and fetal growth. This review delves into the sources, distribution, and effects of micropolymers, nanopolymers, and associated plasticizers acting as EDCs. Furthermore, it provides a detailed review of the mechanisms underlying endocrine disruption in relation to different types of MP/NP.
Keywords: Endocrine disrupting chemical; Hormones; Hypothalamus-pituitary axis; Microplastic; Nanoplastic; Plasticizers.
© 2024 The Authors.