"Endocrine Disruptors - the Dose Makes the Poison"

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Jun 6, 2024 - Cosmetics

"Endocrine Disruptors - the Dose Makes the Poison"

In toxicology, the "principle" is: The dose makes the poison. But are there substances for which there is no "safe" dose and which can be potentially harmful even in the smallest amounts? This question is hotly debated in the case of hormonally active chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, which are foreign compounds that can affect the hormonal system and impact health. Many scientists assume that there is no truly "harmless" dose, while others dispute this.

The research team from the Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) has now published the results of a case study in the "Archives of Toxicology". This case study examined, as examples, four pesticide active ingredients (dimethomorph, metiram, propiconazole, and epoxiconazole) for a potential threshold above which health-damaging effects are possible.

The results of the case study show: The toxicological principle "The dose makes the poison" also applies to endocrine disruptors. All four substances have a threshold above which their adverse effects occur.

The research team from the BfR therefore suggests critically questioning the concept of "no threshold for endocrine active substances." Because with sufficient data, thresholds for these and many other endocrine disruptive chemicals can be determined to enable risk assessment.

Endocrine disruptors also play a role in cosmetic products. Their possible presence and potential impact on the end product are considered in the safety report.

Do you have questions about this or regarding safety assessment? The team at BAV Institute is happy to answer your questions.

Source: https://www.bfr.bund.de/en/start.html