Perturbateurs endocriniens et maladies métaboliques

During the last decades, there has been a dramatic increase in the prevalence of metabolic diseases, diabetes and obesity, which may be primarily related to changes in diet, lifestyle and behaviour. However, because of the parallel increase in pollution, in the use of chemicals for a variety of purposes, in drug consumption and because of additional evidence showing the involvement of the endocrine system in the regulation of metabolism and body weight, scientists have suspected the implication of endocrine disruptors in the developments of these conditions and diseases. Experimental studies have shown a possible role of diethyl stilbestrol, bisphenol A and dioxins/PCBs in endocrine disruption and obesity and highlighted the importance of exposure during vulnerable states such as the perinatal period. Some epidemiological studies also supported the possible role of these pollutants in metabolic diseases and obesity. Obesity is known to alter the kinetics of persistant organic chemicals such as dioxins and PCBs. These pollutants are stored in the adipose tissue, which may protect other more sensitive organs. However, during drastic weight loss, these pollutants are released in blood and tend to delay the improvement in metabolic parameters that are usually observed following weight loss. In conclusion, certain pollutants appear to play a role in the development of metabolic diseases and obesity, although their relative contribution as compared to other risk factor is unknown. In addition, obesity and weight loss alter the kinetics of certains pollutants and their toxicity.