Phthalate toxicity mechanisms: An update

Phthalates are one of the most widely used plasticizers in polymer products, and they are increasingly being exposed to people all over the world, generating health concerns. Phthalates are often used as excipients in controlled-release capsules and enteric coatings, and patients taking these drugs may be at risk. In both animals and human, phthalates are mainly responsible for testicular dysfunction, ovarian toxicity, reduction in steroidogenesis. In this regard, for a better understanding of the health concerns corresponding to phthalates and their metabolites, still more research is required. Significantly, multifarious forms of phthalates and their biomedical effects are need to be beneficial to investigate in the various tissues or organs. Based on these investigations, researchers can decipher their toxicity concerns and related mechanisms in the body after phthalate's exposure. This review summarizes the chemical interactions, mechanisms, and their biomedical applications of phthalates in animals and human.

Automated summary

Phthalates are widely used plasticizers in polymer products, with increasing exposure to people worldwide, causing health concerns. They are commonly used as excipients in controlled-release capsules and enteric coatings, posing risks to patients taking these drugs. Phthalates are primarily responsible for testicular dysfunction, ovarian toxicity, and reduced steroidogenesis in both animals and humans. More research is needed to better understand the health concerns related to phthalates and their metabolites, including investigating their various forms and biomedical effects in different tissues or organs. This review summarizes the chemical interactions, mechanisms, and biomedical applications of phthalates in animals and humans.