Rafael Moreno-Gómez-Toledano

By Rafael Moreno-Gómez-Toledano, María I. Arenas, Sandra Sánchez-Esteban, Alberto Cook, Marta Saura and Ricardo J. Bosch

Bisphenol A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor involved in synthesizing numerous types of plastics, is detected in almost the entire population’s urine. The present work aims to estimate daily exposure to BPA by systematically reviewing all articles with original data related to urinary BPA concentration. This approach is based on human pharmacokinetic models, which have shown that 100% of BPA (free and metabolized form) is eliminated only in a few hours through urine. Several extensive population studies and experimental data have recently proven a significant association between urinary excretion of BPA and albuminuria, associated with renal damage. Our team’s previous work has shown that low-dose BPA can promote a cytotoxic effect on renal mouse podocytes. Moreover, BPA administration in mice promotes kidney damage and hypertension. Furthermore, preliminary studies in human renal cells in culture (podocytes) strongly suggest that BPA might also promote kidney damage. Overall, the present review analyzed BPA exposure data from mammalian cell studies, experimental animal models, and several human populations. Studying principal cohorts calculated the exposures to BPA globally, showing a high BPA exposure suggesting the need to decrease BPA exposure more effectively, emphasizing groups with higher sensitivity as kidney disease patients.

Part of the book: Hot Topics in Endocrinology and Metabolism

By Rafael Moreno-Gómez-Toledano

Part of the book: Environmental Health Literacy Update

By Rafael Moreno-Gómez-Toledano and Clara Jabal-Uriel

Currently, human beings live in a new era, known as the “Plastic Age.” Throughout the history of plastics, two significant potential hazards to human health have been identified. Firstly, the endocrine-disrupting capability of monomers used in plastic synthesis has been under scrutiny. Secondly, in recent years, the potential dangers of nano- and microplastics released from the polymers themselves have begun to gain visibility, with their abundance and health consequences still under study. Consequently, this chapter begins with an analysis of xenobiotic compounds and endocrine disruptors. Subsequently, this chapter emphasizes the concept of microplastics, as their limited number of publications contrasts with their ubiquitous global distribution and potential harmful effects. Their presence across terrestrial ecosystems raises concerns about the possible impacts on pollinator health as these animals are crucial for maintaining agricultural production and plant biodiversity. The quantification of these particles in honey, beeswax, or the pollinators themselves could enable the assessment of the environmental impact of microplastics in terrestrial ecosystems, together with other pollutants that endanger these species. Nevertheless, more research is needed to evaluate the potential threat of microplastics and potential synergies among microplastics and other pollutants found in nature as a consequence of anthropogenic activities.

Part of the book: Environmental Health Literacy Update