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Research

2007 Spring Seed Funding Competition : Project Profile

Impacts of Environmental Estrogens upon Reproductive Health

Lead Investigator:

Denys deCatanzaro, Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour

Team:

Estrogens are among the most powerful natural molecules that affect human physiology. Some modern synthetic chemicals have the potential to act upon natural estrogen receptors. These include bisphenol-A which is found in numerous household products, pesticides such as methoxychlor and fenarimol, parabens in cosmetics and soaps, and phthalates in cosmetics and various plastics. There are many gaps in knowledge concerning potential consequences of exposure upon reproductive health. Using laboratory animals, we will examine varied doses of these substances alone or in combination to determine the threshold levels that adversely impact reproductive health. We will examine effects upon prenatal sexual differentiation, pubertal development, and fertility.