Sunday, January 18, 2015

Bisphenol A

INSERM. France: Bisphenol A is a chemical compound that is included in the composition of plastics and resins. It is notably used in the manufacture of food containers and is also found in the protective films used inside food and beverage cans. Several studies have shown that this component has harmful effects on reproduction, metabolism and the brain. The full impact of bisphenol A occurs during foetal life.
Testosterone produced by the testes in humans and mammals during foetal life is necessary for the masculinisation of internal and external genitalia. Without this hormone, these organs can spontaneously develop in a female sense. A decrease in foetal testosterone production can lead to defects in masculinisation observed at birth (such as hypospadias and cryptorchidism). Furthermore, it is likely that a lack of testosterone produced during foetal life can result in a reduced sperm count in adulthood.