Research
Our research bridges reproductive biology, toxicology, and sustainable chemistry to study the mechanisms by which environmental chemicals and nanoplastics act as endocrine disruptors and reproductive toxicants.
Understanding how endocrine disrupting chemicals act is important for the development of safer chemicals, to guide public health policies, and for developing novel therapeutics to prevent damage to sensitive reproductive organs.
We are funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
Currently, we are investigating the ovarian toxicity and mechanisms of legacy and replacement plasticizers to inform safer chemical design.
Endocrine Disruption
Endocrine disrupting chemicals are chemicals that interfere in any way with the production, distribution, or action of hormones in the body. Many endocrine disrupting chemicals are hormone mimics. Human are exposed during daily life to endocrine disrupting chemicals, which include ingredients in pesticides, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and consumer products.
Phthalates
Phthalates are a class of chemicals used in industrial and consumer products including medical equipment, car interiors, shower curtains, synthetic leather, and children’s toys as well as fragranced cleaning and personal care products. Humans are ubiquitously exposed due to their widespread use. Phthalates are known endocrine disrupting chemicals.
The Ovary
The ovary is vital for female reproductive health. It is responsible for production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone as well as development and release of oocytes. Women are born with a finite number of oocytes. Disruption of oocyte maturation, ovulation, or hormone production can result in infertility, premature menopause, and other hormone-related diseases.
We are also interested in how properties of nanoplastic particles determine their distribution and toxicity during development.
Microplastics & Nanoplastics
Microplastics and nanoplastics are plastic particles that form from the physical breakdown of environmental and household plastics, leading to ubiquitous exposure in humans and wildlife. Plastic particles have been detected in human tissues including the brain and placenta, but little is known about their health impacts.
The Placenta
The placenta is a temporary organ that forms to support fetal growth and development. Dysregulated placental development and function are key determinants in pregnancy complications. Plastic particles have been reported in human placenta samples, showing their penetration from ambient exposure.
