The Effect of Endocrine Disruptors On Health

The upcoming course will give an overview on the fundamental notions on endocrine disruptors and the effects they can have on human health. It is possible to find these substances in everyday necessities and in food with the ability to interfere with normal hormonal activity by inducing abnormal reactions. The course aims to provide the basics of the different mechanisms of action of endocrine disruptors. The effects of these interferents on the functionality of the endocrine glands (i.e., metabolism, reproduction) and the nervous system (i.e., behavior) will be discussed. These aspects will be discussed on various stages of life and possible sexual differences. It will be possible to understand endocrine disruptors and the possible risks associated with their exposure.

At the end of the course the students are expected to demonstrate the knowledge of the mechanisms and effects exerted by endocrine disruptors on all phases of hormones such as synthesis, action and degradation from a molecular point of view and considering the different organs.