Reproductive development and function

There is some evidence from a number of animal species that phytoestrogen consumption can interfere with reproductive development and function. ... 

EPA (2010) Atrazine disrupts reproductive development and function across vertebrate classes. http //www.savethefrogs.eom/actions/pesticides/images/publlcatlons/Hayes-EPA-2010-Submission.pdf. Accessed 2011... 

Gray LE Jr, OstbyJ, Ferrell J, et al A dose-response analysis of methoxychlor-induced alterations of reproductive development and function in the rat Fundam Appl Toxicol 12 92-108, 1989... 

Reproductive development and function depend on endocrine communication throughout the mammalian life cycle. Protein and steroid hormones, growth factors and other signalling molecules affect gene expression and protein synthesis in target cells of different tissues. In particular, fetal development, development of the reproductive tract,... 

FIGURE 36.1. The multiple steps involved in reproductive development and function in both males and females are shown schematically to illustrate the complexity of reproduction in mammalian species and to demonstrate the various stages in the reproductive process which can be targeted for toxic insult. This figure was adapted, with permission, from Ellington, J.E., Wilker, C.E. (2006). Small Animal Toxicology, 2nd edition (M.E. Peterson, P.A. Talcott, eds). Elsevier Saunders, St Louis (modifications and artwork courtesy of Don Connor). 

In order to fully appreciate the potential implications of endocrine disruption, it is important to consider the normal role of hormones in controlling the development and functioning of the reproductive systems of the different vertebrate classes. 

Effects of Oestrogen on the Development and Function of the Male Reproductive System... 

In recent years, concern that chemicals might inadvertently be disrupting the endocrine system of humans and wildlife has increased. The concerns regarding exposure to these endocrine disrupters are based on adverse effects observed in certain wildlife, fish, and ecosystems increased incidences of certain endocrine-related human diseases and adverse effects observed in laboratory animals exposed to certain chemicals. The main effects reported in both wildlife and humans concern reproductive and sexual development and function altered immune system, nervous system, and thyroid function and hormone-related cancers. Endocrine dismption is not considered a toxicological endpoint in its own right, but a functional change or toxicological mode(s) of action that may lead to adverse effects. Endocrine dismpters are addressed further in Section 4.11. 

Thyroid hormone is critical for the development and functioning of nervous, skeletal, and reproductive tissues. Its effects depend on protein synthesis as well as potentiation of the secretion and action of growth hormone. Thyroid deprivation in early life results in irreversible mental retardation and dwarfism—typical of congenital cretinism. 

Eisenberg L (1981) Physiological and psychological aspects of sexual development and function. In Hamilton DW Naftolin F ed. Basic reproductive medicine, Vol. 1. Cambridge, Massachusetts. The MIT Press, p 118. 

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