EDCs: Focus on reproductive alterations in mammalian and nonmammalian models

It is well known that endocrine-disrupting chemicals, thanks to their ability to mimic or antagonize sexual hormone activity, can affect the reproductive functions of both wild animals and humans. Some of them are slow to break down in the environment, making them potentially hazardous over time. Starting in 2000, experts concluded there was credible evidence that very low doses of some hormone-like chemicals can adversely affect bodily functions in test animals. Many studies so far evaluated the endocrine properties of a plethora of chemicals, and in this chapter, attention will be mainly posed to Bisphenol A, its analogs, most common phthalates, and components of flame retardants. All these compounds affect body reproductive tissues in mammalian and nonmammalian species by interacting with the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Results presented within the chapter will help to create a comprehensive database from several scientific studies on how different substances interact with natural hormones and their receptors, thus contrasting or potentiating their physiological effects.