In vitro molecular mechanisms of bisphenol A action

Bisphenol A (BPA, 2.2-bis (4-hydroxyphenyl) propane; CAS# 80-05-7) is a chemical used primarily in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic, epoxy resins and as a non-polymer additive to other plastics. Recent evidence has demonstrated that human and wildlife populations are exposed to levels of BPA which cause adverse reproductive and developmental effects in a number of different wildlife species and laboratory animal models. However, there are major uncertainties surrounding the spectrum of BPA:s mechanisms of action, the tissue-specific impacts of exposures, and the critical windows of susceptibility during which target tissues are sensitive to BPA exposures. As a foundation to address some of those uncertainties, this review was prepared by the In vitro expert sub-panel assembled during the Bisphenol A: An Examination of the Relevance of Ecological, In vitro and Laboratoty Annual Studies for Assessing Risks to Human Health workshop held in Chapel Hill, NC, Nov 28-29, 2006. The specific charge of this expert panel was to review and assess the strength of the published literature pertaining to the mechanisms of BPA action.