LECTURE TOPIC:  The hormone mimics: From silent birds to human illness, yet denial carries on. (Lecture also on 9/29)​

Abstract:  From the early days of Silent Spring to present, we have witnessed the environmental and health impacts of industrial chemicals with hormone-mimicking properties. Well-documented reproductive changes in alligators, birds and frogs allowed us a first glimpse into the destructive impact of these chemicals. In addition, exposure to environmental toxins such as industrial chemicals that are estrogen-mimics could contribute to the rise in cancer rates, and is suspected of unfavorable modulation of the immune system.

The precise role of these chemicals in human disease is becoming clear as science and technology progress. However, a flood gate of criticism and denial from some who refuse to see these chemicals as environmental or health risk threatens society’s ability to try to mitigate these effects. As a scientist, I am unable to explore all variables influencing human health, and do not claim to suggest that the direct hormone-mimicking actions of these chemicals is the sole explanation for the impacts seen in environmental and experimental studies.

My research on these estrogen-mimics focuses on mechanisms, through which several pollutants function to alter human health such as blocking the desired effects of anti-cancer medication.  Our results demonstrate that industrial toxins can activate metastatic signaling (cancer spreading) and could participate in changing the functions and availability of the nuclear codes (DNA). Finally, our work demonstrated for the first time, plausible mechanisms through which some environmental pollutants may contribute to adverse health and reproduction.  These studies aid our understanding of the biological and environmental impacts of exposure to estrogen mimics. Scientists must continue to explore mechanisms that can guide our understanding of the biological impacts of these pervasive chemicals in our environment.