Unravelling the Influence of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals on Obesity Pathophysiology Pathways

Abstract

Obesity represents a global health concern, affecting individuals of all age groups across the world. The prevalence of excess weight and obesity has escalated to pandemic proportions, leading to a substantial increase in the incidence of various comorbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. This chapter seeks to provide a comprehensive exploration of the pathways through which endocrine-disrupting chemicals can influence the pathophysiology of obesity. These mechanisms encompass aspects such as the regulation of food intake and appetite, intestinal fat absorption, lipid metabolism, and the modulation of inflammation. This knowledge may help to elucidate the role of exogenous molecules in both the aetiology and progression of obesity.

Keywords: Adipocyte browning; Adipogenic regulation; Endocrine disruptors; Energy homeostasis; Environmental obesogens; Gut microbiota regulation; Inflammation; Insulin resistance; Lipolysis regulation; Metabolic disorders; Mitochondrial dysfunction; Non-shivering thermogenesis; Obesity; Xenoestrogens.