Xenoestrogen
Xenoestrogen
Xenoestrogen (/ˈziːnoʊˌɛstrədʒən/; from the Greek ξένος, xénos, meaning "stranger" and estrogen, the primary female sex hormone) is a type of xenohormone that imitates estrogen. They can be both natural and synthetic or man-made, and are found in numerous substances including plastics, cosmetics, drugs, and food products.
Etymology
The term "xenoestrogen" is derived from the Greek word "xénos" meaning "stranger" or "foreigner", and "estrogen", the primary female sex hormone. It refers to foreign estrogens, or estrogen-like substances that are not produced within the body but are instead introduced from external sources.
Function
Xenoestrogens are part of a larger group of compounds known as endocrine disruptors. These substances interfere with the function of the endocrine system, which controls the body's hormone production and regulation. Xenoestrogens, specifically, mimic the function of estrogens by binding to estrogen receptors in the body. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the endocrine system and lead to various health problems.
Health Effects
Exposure to xenoestrogens has been linked to a variety of health problems. These include reproductive issues, such as infertility and early puberty, as well as an increased risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer and prostate cancer. Other potential health effects include immune system dysfunction, metabolic disorders, and neurological problems.
Related Terms
- Endocrine disruptors: Chemicals that can interfere with the body's endocrine system and produce adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune effects.
- Estrogen: The primary female sex hormone that is responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.
- Xenohormone: A type of hormone that is foreign to the body. Xenoestrogens are a type of xenohormone.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Xenoestrogen
- Wikipedia's article - Xenoestrogen
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