Metabolic and neurodevelopmental effects of the environmental endocrine disruptor di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate: a review

Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate is a plasticizer of health concern due to its presence in the environment and its association with health issues such as metabolic and neurodevelopment disorders. We review the potential hazards and mechansims of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate exposure on the metabolism and neurodevelopment. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate is closely linked to metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, interfering with adipocyte differentiation and lipid metabolism through multiple pathways, thereby disrupting the energy balance. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate is also altering the pancreatic function and glucose metabolism. In terms of neurodevelopment, exposure to di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate is associated with neurological abnormalities, crossing the blood–brain barrier and directly impacting the central nervous system. Early exposure may lead to abnormalities in neuronal migration, synapse formation, and neural connectivity, potentially resulting in cognitive and behavioral consequences. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate exposure, particularly during childhood and adolescence, may have long-term effects on learning, memory, and behavior.