The environmental chemical Bisphenol-A interferes with the action of 17 β-estradiol in human trophoblast

Problem: normal placental development is a fundamental process for pregnancy success and foetal health. We recently demonstrated that environment polluting chemicals can affect this process. In the present study we investigated the potential of these chemicals to interfere with the hormone-action thus, acting as endocrine disruptors. Specifically we studied the effect of bisphenol-A (BPA), an estrogen-like chemical largely used in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Methods: trophoblast-like BeWo cell lines and primary cultures of chorionic villous explants from human placenta were exposed to 17 β-estradiol (E2) and BPA alone or to their combination for 24, 48 and 72 hours. Cells and tissues were analyzed for human beta-Chorionic Gonadotropin, β-hCG production. Results: the results showed that BPA interferes with the action of the endogenous hormone E2 mainly reducing β-hCG secretion at E2 concentrations ranging from 1 nM - 1 pM corresponding to those occurring in the maternal blood in the early stages of pregnancy. Conclusions: these findings highlight marked effects of BPA on trophoblast cell endocrine function and raise concern about the negative, potential effects on mammalian females during early pregnancy.