Windows of sensitivity to toxic chemicals in the development of reproductive effects: an analysis of ATSDR's toxicological profile database.

Development of the fetus is a complex process influenced by many factors including genetics, maternal health, and environmental exposures to toxic chemicals. Adverse developmental effects on the reproductive system have the potential to harm generations beyond those directly exposed. Here, we review the available literature in Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry toxicological profiles related to reproductive-developmental effects in animals following in utero exposure to chemicals. We attempt to identify windows of sensitivity. In the discussion, we correlate the findings with human development. The endpoints noted are fertility, estrus, anogenital distance, sex ratio, spermatogenesis, and mammary gland development. We identified some windows of sensitivity; however, the results were hampered by chronic-exposure studies designed to detect effects occurring throughout developmental, including multi-generational studies. This paper demonstrates the need for more acute studies in animals aimed at understanding time periods of development that are more susceptible to chemically induced adverse effects.