Endocrine Disruptors
Liam Thomas
7 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers endocrine disruptors, including their definition, how they affect the endocrine system (hormones, glands, key hormones like ACTH, thyroid hormones, ADH, insulin, epinephrine, norepinephrine, testosterone, estrogen), common sources (plastics, pesticides, personal care products, food), effects on wildlife (e.g., egg thinning, imposex, feminization) and humans (e.g., genetic deformities, cancers, lower sperm count), examples (e.g., BPA, triclosan, dioxins, PCBs, perchlorate, PBDEs, PFAS, phytoestrogens, phthalates), and exam tips with practice questions (multiple-choice and free-response).
#AP Environmental Science: Endocrine Disruptors - Your Night-Before Guide
Hey there, future AP Environmental Science master! Let's get you feeling confident about endocrine disruptors. This guide is designed to be quick, clear, and super helpful for your last-minute review. Let's dive in!
#What are Endocrine Disruptors?
Endocrine disruptors are chemicals, either natural or man-made, that interfere with the body's endocrine system (hormones). They can mimic, block, or otherwise disrupt the normal function of hormones.
Think of endocrine disruptors as 'hormone hackers' – they mess with the body's communication system.
#The Endocrine System: Your Body's Chemical Messengers
- Hormones: Chemical messengers produced by glands that regulate various bodily functions.
- Glands: Ductless organs that secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream (e.g., ovaries/testes, thyroid, adrenal, pituitary).
- Key Hormones:
- ACTH: Controls adrenal gland hormones.
- Thyroid Hormones: Regulate metabolism, growth, and development.
- ADH (Vasopressin): Controls water reabsorption in kidneys.
- Insulin: Regulates blood sugar.
- Epinephrine & Norepinephrine: Stress response hormones.
- Testosterone: Male sex hormone.
- Estrogen: Female sex hormone.
The endocrine system is all about balance. Disruptors throw off this delicate balance.
#Where are These Disruptors Hiding?
Endocrine disruptors are surprisingly common! They can be found in:
- Plastics: Especially those containing BPA.
- Pesticides: Used in agriculture and pest control.
- Personal Care Products: Like some soaps and cosmetics.
- Food: Some disruptors can leach into food from packaging.
Caption: Endocrine disruptors are found in many everyday items, including plastics and pesticides.
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