Author/Editor		Perharič, Lucija
Title		Povzročitelji endokrinih motenj
Type		članek
Source		In: Maček J, editor. Zbornik predavanj in referatov 6. slovenskega posvetovanja o varstvu rastlin; 2003 mar 4-6; Zreče. Ljubljana: Društvo za varstvo rastlin Slovenije,
Publication year		2003
Volume		str. 18-23
Language		slo
Abstract		The last two decades have witnessed several concerned reports on substances which may disturb endocrine (hormonal) balance in man and wildlife. An endocrine disruptor (ED) is an exogenous substance or mixture that alters function(s) of the endocrine system and consequently causes adverse health effects in an intact organism, or its progeny, or (sub)populations. Multiple and variable mechanisms of action are involved. The ascribed effects of EDs range from subtle changes in physiology and sexual behaviour to permanently altered sexual differentiation in aquatic organisms; a decline in sperm quality, altered sex ratio, an increase in congenital malformations, precocious puberty, neurobehavioral and immune disturbances and an increased incidence of cancer in hormonally sensitive tissues in man. Their evaluation proves difficult due to the complex relationships among various components of the endocrine system, the effects of age and the developmental stage of exposed organisms. Further, exposure to different doses at various life stagesmay cause diverse effects. There is little doubt that some EDs, i.e. persistent organic pollutants, may cause endocrine disruption at high doses. However, the association between low-dose exposure and untoward endocrine effects remains controversial. Despite biological plausibility there is no reliable evidence of a causal relationship. The weakest link hindering a credible risk assessment represent the insufficient exposure data. In view of the known effects of endogenous and exogenous hormones it is possible, that EDs affect the reproduction and disturb the development of the progeny. These concerns are substantiated by the results in laboratory animals and wildlife. (Abstract truncated at 2000 characters)
Descriptors		ENDOCRINE DISEASES ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANTS PESTICIDE RESIDUES