Xenohormone
Xenohormone
Xenohormone (/ˈziːnoʊˌhɔːrmoʊn/; from the Greek ξένος, xenos, "stranger", "alien", and hormone) is a type of xenobiotic that imitates or interferes with the actions of endogenous hormones. Xenohormones are a subset of endocrine disruptors.
Etymology
The term "xenohormone" is derived from the Greek word "xenos" which means stranger or alien, and the word "hormone". The prefix "xeno-" is used in biology to denote foreign substances. In this context, it refers to hormones that are not produced within the organism's body but are introduced from an external source.
Function
Xenohormones can mimic or block the effects of naturally occurring hormones in the body. They can bind to receptors in cells and either activate or inhibit the normal hormonal response. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system, leading to a variety of health effects.
Sources
Xenohormones can be found in a variety of sources, including certain types of plastics, pesticides, and industrial chemicals. They can also be found in some foods, particularly those that have been treated with certain types of pesticides or that contain high levels of certain types of fats.
Health Effects
Exposure to xenohormones can have a variety of health effects, depending on the specific type of xenohormone and the level of exposure. Some xenohormones have been linked to reproductive health issues, while others have been associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancer.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Xenohormone
- Wikipedia's article - Xenohormone
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