Obesogen

Obesogen is a term used to describe foreign chemical compounds that have the potential to disrupt normal development and balance of lipid metabolism, which can lead to obesity. Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excess of body fat, which can have negative effects on health. Obesogens are a subset of endocrine disrupting chemicals that alter the regulation of fat production and energy balance.

Introduction

Obesogens are chemicals that can inappropriately stimulate adipogenesis and fat storage. They are a subset of endocrine disruptors, chemicals that can interfere with the body's endocrine system and produce adverse developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune effects. Obesogens can be found in various everyday products, including certain foods, plastics, and pesticides.

Mechanism of Action

Obesogens work by altering lipid metabolism and promoting fat accumulation in the body. They can act on a number of different targets within the body, including Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), which is a key regulator of adipocyte differentiation and lipid storage. Obesogens can also affect the function of other hormones that regulate appetite, satiety, food preferences, and energy metabolism.

Health Effects

Exposure to obesogens has been linked to a number of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. These health effects can occur not only in those directly exposed to obesogens, but also in their offspring, suggesting that obesogens can have transgenerational effects.

Prevention and Control

Preventing exposure to obesogens involves identifying and avoiding products that contain these chemicals. This can be challenging, as many obesogens are found in common household items. However, efforts are being made to develop safer alternatives to these chemicals and to improve the regulation of chemicals in consumer products.

See Also

• Endocrine disruptor
• Obesity
• Metabolic syndrome
• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease

References

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