Introduction: Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate also known as "DEHP" is a chemical compound classified as a phthalate, a type of synthetic chemical used in the production of plastics. DEHP is commonly used as a plasticizer, a substance that is added to plastics to make them more flexible and durable.
Environmental Effects: DEHP is known to be an environmental pollutant. It is often released into the environment during the production and disposal of plastic products containing DEHP. It can leach from these products and contaminate soil, water, and air. DEHP is considered a potential endocrine disruptor, which means it can interfere with the endocrine system of animals and humans, potentially causing adverse effects on reproductive and hormonal functions.
Associated Diseases: Exposure to DEHP has been associated with various health concerns such as:
Reproductive Effects: DEHP exposure has been linked to reproductive problems in both animals and humans. It may disrupt normal sexual development and fertility.
Endocrine Disruption: DEHP is suspected of interfering with the endocrine system, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances.
Respiratory Effects: Some studies suggest that DEHP exposure may be associated with respiratory issues, particularly in children.
Liver and Kidney Damage: High levels of DEHP exposure have been linked to liver and kidney damage in animal studies.
Additional Resources
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): DEHP Factsheet
Table1. Number of differentially expressed gene under DEHP exposure.
Table2. Number of differentially accessible regions under DEHP exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | DAR |
|---|
| 3 Weeks | Liver | | 368 |
|---|
| 162 |
| 20 Weeks | Blood | | 142 |
|---|
| 48 |
| Liver | | 143 |
| 47 |
Table3. Number of differentially methylated regions under DEHP exposure.
| Age | Tissues | Sex | Hypomethylated | Hypermethylated |
|---|
| 20 Weeks | Blood | | 164 | 116 |
|---|
| 55 | 145 |
| Cortex | | 253 | 219 |
| 433 | 149 |
| Liver | | 147 | 141 |
| 126 | 249 |