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Mechanism of action and cumulative effects of phthalate esters to alter male reproductive development in the rat.
Citation:
HOWDESHELL, K. Mechanism of action and cumulative effects of phthalate esters to alter male reproductive development in the rat. Presented at Science, Technology, and Society Progam @ Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY, April 09, 2008.
Impact/Purpose:
Presentation @ Vassar College, as part of the Science, Technology & Society Progam
Description:
Phthalate diesters are high-produciton volume chemicals used to impart flexibility to polyvinyl plastic (e.g. children's toys and medical tubing) as well as other products (e.g. health and beauty products). Humans are ubiquitously exposed to these chemicals. Certain phthalate esters are reproductive toxicants in laboratory rats, particularly when exposure occurs in the womb. This presentation will review the current understanding of the mechanisms of action by which phthalates dusrupt male reproductiv development, the cumulative effects of phthalate mixtures, and the possible implications of phthalate exposure on human reproductive health.