Fetal and adult exposure to bisphenol-A as a contributing factor in the etiology of the metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and obesity are among the most challenging health problems on a global scale. The number of patients is increasing worldwide at an alarming rate. Although the underlying cause of the problem is still puzzling, genetic and environmental factors are thought to have a causal influence. Furthermore, widespread human exposure to significant doses of bisphenol-A (BPA) has been reported. BPA is a product commonly used in food and beverage containers that has been demonstrated to interfere with endocrine signaling pathways at low doses during fetal, neonatal or perinatal periods as well as in adulthood. There is also increasing experimental evidence revealing the deleterious effects of BPA on energy balance and glucose homeostasis. In the present review, we will summarize the most relevant findings that confirm the critical role of BPA in the development of metabolic disorders. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2011.