Early-life exposure to di (2-ethyl-hexyl) phthalate: Role in children with endocrine disorders

Abstract

Di (2-ethyl-hexyl) phthalate (DEHP), one of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), has widespread concern due to its serious health hazards. Exposure to DEHP in the early stage of life affects fetal metabolic and endocrine function, which even would cause genetic lesions. To date, it is widely believed that the increasing incidence of childhood obesity and diabetes in adolescents is related to the impact of DEHP on glucose and lipid homeostasis in children. However, there remains a knowledge gap to recognize these adverse effects. Thus, in this review, besides the exposure routes and levels of DEHP, we further outline the effects of early-life exposure to DEHP on children and potential mechanisms, focusing on the aspect of metabolic and endocrine homeostasis.

Diethylhexyl phthalate exposure amplifies oxidant and inflammatory response in fetal hyperglycemia model predisposing insulin resistance in zebrafish embryos

“…Women employed in the medical field, manufacturing, or agricultural sector may be exposed to elevated concentrations of endocrine-disrupting chemicals including diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), which could provide a significant risk of toxicity to their fetus when exposure occurs during pregnancy (Bonde, 2020). DEHP is a phthalate derivative used in various aspects of daily life, including cosmetics, clothing, toys, household items, food packaging, and medical supplies (Zeng et al, 2023). Studies have shown that DEHP can pass from the mother to the fetus through the placenta and can directly or indirectly affect the 1 fetus.…”

“…Studies have shown that DEHP can pass from the mother to the fetus through the placenta and can directly or indirectly affect the 1 fetus. Accordingly, intrauterine DEHP exposure may lead to errors in gene coding and expression, causing postnatal and adulthood energy metabolism disruptions and endocrine disorders (Zeng et al, 2023).…”