Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a group of 209 synthetic organic chemicals consisting of two benzene rings with one to ten chlorine atoms attached. They are not therapeutic targets but are classified as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that pose significant risks to human health and the environment (EPA, 2023). PCBs exert their biological effects primarily through the activation of the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), which regulates the expression of various genes, including those in the cytochrome P450 family (Safe, 1994). Additionally, they are known to disrupt endocrine functions by mimicking or interfering with hormones such as estrogen and thyroid hormones (NIH, 2022). Chronic exposure is associated with a range of adverse health outcomes, including immunotoxicity, neurodevelopmental deficits, and an increased risk of cancers such as melanoma and liver cancer (IARC, 2016). Because of their high stability and lipophilicity, PCBs bioaccumulate in fatty tissues and persist in the environment for decades, leading to their global ban under the Stockholm Convention.

Other names

ChlorobiphenylsAroclorPhenoclorKanechlorChlorinated biphenyls

Activation of the Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and modulation of ryanodine receptors and endocrine signaling pathways.