Assessment of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in companion animals

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with hormone signalling, posing a significant risk to animal and human health. Usually, EDCs are environmental pollutants and, due to their lipophilic nature, can accumulate in fat tissues, leading to chronic exposure and serious health issues, such as endocrine-related neoplasia. Companion animals, particularly dogs and cats, are frequently exposed to EDCs at higher rates than their owners, owing to their proximity to the ground and their behaviours.

Despite increasing concern regarding EDC exposure, most biomonitoring studies to date have focused on humans and livestock, with limited attention given to pets. This study aimed to assess the presence of EDCs in the adipose tissue of dogs and cats diagnosed with hormone-sensitive neoplasms. Biological samples were collected from animals with and without neoplasia (i.e., a control group) at veterinary care centres across the north of Portugal. Clinical and pathological data, along with lifestyle information obtained through in-person questionnaires, were also gathered. A broad range of persistent and emerging EDCs were quantified using gas chromatography after a single ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method was performed. Statistical data analysis was conducted to explore associations between EDC exposure and various clinical/pathological characteristics or animal habits. The findings from this research could provide valuable insights into the risks posed to pets by EDCs and support the development of improved strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of endocrine-related diseases in companion animals.

Acknowledgements

This work received support and help from FCT/MCTES(LA/P/0008/2020-DOI 10.54499/LA/P/0008/2020, UIDP/50006/2020-DOI10.54499/UIDP/50006/2020 and UIDB/50006/2020-DOI 10.54499/UIDB/50006/2020), through national funds.