Bisphenol A is an estrogen mimic, found in some of the plastics we use in our everyday lives. How much of a problem is this endocrine disrupter? Are there other compounds that should concern us?
Biologists suggest that some natural experiments could help illuminate this question. For example, cats are experiencing an unusually high number of thyroid problems. What could be triggering this hormone disturbance? Alligators in Florida lakes also demonstrate abnormal development. What can they teach us?
This is the second in a two-part series on endocrine disruption.
Guests: Linda Birnbaum, PhD, is Division Director of Experimental Toxicology at the United States Environmental Protection Agency. She is past president of the Society of Toxicology and president elect of the International Union of Toxicology. Dr. Birnbaum also serves on the faculties of both Duke University and the University of North Carolina.
Louis Guillette, PhD, is distinguished professor of zoology at the University of Florida in Gainesville and professor at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.
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