4.16 - Effect of Environmental Toxicants on the Neuroendocrine Control of Female Reproduction

Abstract

The hypothalamus and pituitary are known to play key roles in reproductive function. A growing body of evidence indicates that environmental toxicants can alter female reproductive function by disrupting hypothalamic control of the pituitary and subsequently, the endocrine control of ovarian function. This article reviews the current literature on the effects of environmental toxicants on hypothalamic regulation of pituitary hormone secretion. The impact of toxicant exposure during critical periods of the estrous cycle as well as the concept of acquired tolerance following chronic exposure to specific toxicants is also discussed. We also briefly mention several other reproductive processes that might be disrupted by environmental toxicants, which target the hypothalamic regulation of pituitary hormone secretion in the female.