Mechanism-Based Carcinogenic Risk Assessment of Estrogens and Estrogen-Like Compounds

Abstract

Estrogens play an important role in mammalian reproductive cycles and a disturbance of this cycle can cause adverse effects like carcinogenicity. A mechanistic modeling approach is helpful in attempting to unravel the entanglement of genomic, non-genomic, and feedback signals involved in endocrine signaling. To make more balanced decisions on possible human health risks put forth by endocrine active compounds (e.g., estrogens and estrogen-like agents), a multidisciplinary approach is necessary. Besides traditional epidemiological studies, accumulation of mechanistic data is essential for all classes of agents. Combining all available information is a positive move towards a more complete risk assessment process.