Research progress in correlation between early life exposure to environmental endocrine disruptor chemicals and allergic diseases in children / 上海交通大学学报（医学版）

ABSTRACT

Endocrine disruptor chemicals (EDCs) are similar to steroid hormones in molecular structure, and may have steroid-like disrupting effects on the immune system and influence the risk of allergic diseases. For example, bisphenol A (BPA) and triclosan (TCS) are commonly EDCs existing in the environment, and both BPA and TCS are widely added to daily necessities and catering products. Animal experiments found that prenatal BPA exposure may be associated with higher risk of respiratory allergic diseases in offspring. It was also found by a few epidemiological studies that TCS exposure was associated with higher risks of eczema, and allergic disorders in respiratory system and digestive tracts in children. EDCs may increase cytokines and immunoglobulins levels by interrupting the function of helper T cells (Th1/Th2) so as to affect the immune system, which might be associated with allergic reactions. This review mainly focused on the correlation between EDCs (BPA and TCS) and childhood allergic diseases and the underlying mechanisms.