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Elche, Spain — A groundbreaking study conducted by Professor José Villalaín at Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH) has raised alarms about the safety of bisphenol analogs BPF and BPS, which are marketed as safer substitutes for bisphenol A (BPA). Published in the Journal of Xenobiotics, the research employs advanced computer simulations to reveal that these compounds may still pose significant health risks, including obesity, diabetes, and hormone disruption.
BPF and BPS: “Safer” No More?
The study builds on existing concerns about BPA, a chemical commonly used in plastics and resins, which has been restricted in the European Union due to its classification as an endocrine disruptor. While BPF and BPS were introduced as safer alternatives, Professor Villalaín’s research challenges this notion. Using molecular dynamics simulations, the study demonstrated that these compounds accumulate in human cell membranes, disrupting their physical properties and interfering with vital endocrine functions.
“BPF and BPS behave in a manner strikingly similar to BPA,” Villalaín noted. “They integrate into biological membranes, altering their structure and potentially triggering adverse health effects.”
The Science Behind the Findings
The research utilized high-resolution computer models to simulate interactions between bisphenols and human cell membranes. The findings revealed that these chemicals accumulate at the lipid interfaces of membranes, disrupting the delicate balance necessary for proper cellular communication. This disruption can lead to endocrine dysfunction, a key factor in conditions like obesity, diabetes, infertility, and other health issues.
Endocrine disruptors, which interfere with the body’s hormonal system, are present in everyday items such as food containers, plastic bottles, toys, and cosmetics. While BPA is increasingly regulated, its analogs, BPF and BPS, remain widespread in consumer products.
Implications for Public Health
Recent studies have detected elevated levels of BPF and BPS in the urine of European adults, linking these compounds to heightened risks of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and metabolic disorders. Professor Villalaín’s findings add weight to calls for stricter regulations on all bisphenol compounds.
“The accumulation of bisphenols in biological membranes could have profound implications for both human and animal health,” Villalaín emphasized. “Given their potential risks, the use of these substances should be reconsidered.”
A Call for Action
This study underscores the urgency of reassessing the safety of so-called BPA alternatives. As global reliance on plastics continues, scientists and policymakers must collaborate to mitigate the risks posed by these pervasive chemicals.
The findings also highlight the need for continued innovation in material science to develop genuinely safer alternatives to bisphenols. For now, consumers are encouraged to minimize exposure to plastics and opt for bisphenol-free products whenever possible.
For further information, the study can be accessed in the Journal of Xenobiotics under the title “Bisphenol F and Bisphenol S in a Complex Biomembrane: Comparison with Bisphenol A” (DOI: 10.3390/jox14030068).
