endo endocrine disruptors

• What are endocrine disruptors?

  They are molecules that interfere with the endocrine system.
• How do endocrine disruptors typically act?

  They act as agonists or antagonists to hormones.
• What is an agonist in the context of endocrine disruptors?

  An agonist mimics a hormone and produces overstimulation.
• What is an antagonist in the context of endocrine disruptors?

  An antagonist blocks a receptor and stops the response.
• What are some effects of endocrine disruptors on development and reproduction?

  They can cause abnormal gonad morphology and early puberty.
• What is a common endocrine disruptor found in plastics?

  Bisphenol A (BPA)
• What are the effects of DDT as an endocrine disruptor?

  It causes reproductive disorders and nervous system disorders.
• When was DDT developed for use?

  In 1939 for use during World War II.
• What are phytoestrogens?

  Estrogen-like compounds derived from plants.
• What is bioaccumulation?

  It is the gradual build-up of chemicals in a living organism.
• What is biomagnification?

  It is the transfer of chemicals from lower to higher trophic levels.
• What contributes to bioaccumulation of endocrine disruptors?

  Persistent endocrine disruptors have extremely high lipid solubility.
• How do endocrine disruptors increase in concentration in the food chain?

  They increase in concentration as they are passed up the food chain.
• What is the difference between vulnerability and susceptibility?

  Vulnerability refers to the likelihood of being harmed, while susceptibility refers to the degree of response to harm.
• Why are children particularly at risk of contaminant exposure?

  Children have developing bodies and higher exposure rates relative to their size.
• What is the significance of Tyrone Hayes' statement about being interested in frogs?

  It highlights the intersection of scientific research and social justice issues.
• How can the scientific community be made more accountable to the public?

  By increasing transparency and engaging with community concerns.
• What complicates the accountability of policymakers to science?

  Financial influences can complicate accountability.
• What are the long-term effects of endocrine disruptors?

  • Bioaccumulation: gradual build-up of chemicals in organisms
  • Biomagnification: increased concentration in apex predators
  • Reproductive disorders
  • Nervous system disorders
• What are the upcoming due dates for the course?

  • 11/7: Exam III
  • 11/12: Final articles/grants & presentations due
  • 11/12-21: Presentations
  • 11/19: Extra credit #1 due
  • 12/3-5: Final Exam Review
  • 12/4: Extra credit #2 due
  • 12/12: Final Exam
  • 12/13: Extra credit #3 due
• What are some common endocrine disruptors?

  • Bisphenol A (BPA)
  • DDT
  • Phytoestrogens (from plants)
• What are the effects of atrazine on wildlife and humans?

  • Disruption of endocrine function
  • Potential reproductive issues
  • Vulnerable populations include children and pregnant women