What do endocrine disruptors do?

What do endocrine disruptors do?

• A. Break down organic matter
• B. Mimic hormones and disrupt the endocrine system
• C. Kill bacteria
• D. Filter pollutants

Answer: (B)

Endocrine disruptors interfere with hormonal signaling. They can mimic natural hormones and bind to receptor sites, causing signals to be overstimulated or blocked, which disrupts the normal regulation of growth, development, reproduction, and metabolism. Exposure during sensitive periods, like fetal development or puberty, can lead to lasting effects even at low doses. Examples include BPA and phthalates found in plastics and certain pesticides. These do not break down organic matter, kill bacteria, or filter pollutants—that’s not how endocrine disruptors act.

Endocrine disruptors interfere with hormonal signaling. They can mimic natural hormones and bind to receptor sites, causing signals to be overstimulated or blocked, which disrupts the normal regulation of growth, development, reproduction, and metabolism. Exposure during sensitive periods, like fetal development or puberty, can lead to lasting effects even at low doses. Examples include BPA and phthalates found in plastics and certain pesticides. These do not break down organic matter, kill bacteria, or filter pollutants—that’s not how endocrine disruptors act.