Immunology has always been a crucial area of study within the broader medical field, focusing on the body’s ability to combat infectious diseases and maintain internal stability. However, this finely tuned system is susceptible to various external substances, most notably endocrine disruptors. These chemicals, which can interfere with the normal functioning of hormonal systems, pose significant risks not only to metabolic and reproductive health but are now recognized to affect immune responses.
Studies have increasingly demonstrated a significant interaction between hormonal disruptions caused by external chemicals, like bisphenol A, phthalates, and polychlorinated biphenyls, and the modulation of immune functions. These substances are ubiquitous in many modern products and environments, making them a common element of contemporary human exposure. The repercussions of this exposure are profound, influencing susceptibility to infections, the severity of autoimmune responses, and the development of allergic conditions by mimicking or inhibiting natural hormonal signals that regulate immune and inflammatory responses.
This Research Topic aims to compile new research highlighting the detailed mechanisms through which endocrine disruptors influence the immune system. To ensure a comprehensive understanding of this complex issue, our scope is as follows:
Explorative studies on molecular and cellular mechanisms, detailing how endocrine disruptors interact with immune regulators at the biochemical level.
Epidemiological insights into how environmental exposure correlates with altered immune functions within populations.
Experimental research using different model organisms to illustrate the broader implications of these disruptions on health.
Investigations into developmental immuno-toxicology, emphasizing the effects of exposure during critical growth phases.
Policy and medical discussions that translate these findings into practical strategies for public health interventions and treatment methodologies.
Together, these contributions will enhance our understanding of how hormonal disruptors interfere with immune functions, potentially guiding improved regulatory measures and innovative therapeutic strategies. This research could be pivotal in redefining approaches to environmental health hazards and immune-related diseases.
Article types and fees
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Case Report
Classification
Clinical Trial
Editorial
FAIR² Data
General Commentary
Hypothesis and Theory
Methods
Mini Review
Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.
Article types
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.