Environmental contamination by bisphenols: From plastic production to modulation of the intestinal morphophysiology in experimental models

Abstract

Bisphenols are frequently found in a range of plastic products and have been associated with the development of diseases such as diabetes mellitus type 2 and obesity. These compounds are known as endocrine disruptors and have led to restrictions on their use due to their presence in the environment and their association with non-communicable chronic diseases. The gastrointestinal tract, being the primary site of food and water absorption, is particularly vulnerable to the effects of bisphenols. For this reason, a review of studies showing associations between bisphenols exposure and adverse effects in the gut microbiota, morphology tissue, gut permeability, and on the enteric nervous system was carried out. We have included perinatal studies and in different adult experimental models. The effects of bisphenol exposure on the gut microbiota are complex and varied. Bisphenol exposure generally leads to a decrease in microbial diversity and may impact the integrity of the intestinal barrier, resulting in elevated levels of inflammation, changes in morphological and metabolic characteristics of the gut, modifications in tight junction expression, and changes in goblet cell expression. In addition, bisphenol exposure in the perinatal phase can lead to important intestinal changes, including increased colonic inflammation and decreased colonic paracellular permeability.