What are the Health Implications of Nuclear Receptor Activation by Toxicants?
The health implications of nuclear receptor activation by toxicants can be wide-ranging and severe. For instance:
Endocrine Disruption: Chemicals that activate or inhibit nuclear receptors can disrupt endocrine signaling, leading to reproductive issues, developmental problems, and cancers. Metabolic Disorders: Activation of receptors like PPARs by toxicants can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Immune System Impairment: Compounds that affect glucocorticoid receptors can interfere with the immune response, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. Carcinogenesis: Some nuclear receptors, when aberrantly activated, can promote cancer by altering cell proliferation and apoptosis pathways.
