Effects and mechanisms of phthalates' action on neurological processes and neural health: a literature review

During the period of mass industrial production of plastic products, the quality of human health has decreased significantly, especially in children's neurodevelopmental disorders. Phthalates are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can induce neurological disorders. This review aims to compile evidence concerning the associations between neurological disorders, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, decreased masculine behavior, and phthalate exposure. Phthalates dysregulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal, adrenal, and thyroid axis, which is crucial for the neurodevelopmental process. Phthalates interfere with nuclear receptors in various neural structures involved in controlling brain functions and the onset of neurological disorders at the intracellular level. It is critical to increase the current knowledge concerning phthalates' toxicity mechanism to comprehend their harmful effect on human health.

Automated summary

Phthalates, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, have been linked to neurological disorders, particularly in children, causing neurodevelopmental disorders. Understanding the toxic mechanism of phthalates is crucial in comprehending their harmful effects on human health.