The sunscreen 4-methylbenzylidene camphor and reproduction:
Environmental presence, mechanism of action and effects in different
experimental models
Abstract
4-Methylbenzylidene camphor (4-MBC) is a photo-absorbing UV filter,
which can be absorbed into the circulation and cause systemic effects.
4-MBC is found extensively in the environment and measurements suggest
bioaccumulation in human tissues. 4-MBC is continued to be released in
the environment despite the growing knowledge about its potential
endocrine and reproductive disrupting effects. 4-MBC interfers with
various processes, such as placental development, spermatogenesis, and
inflammatory cascades. Previous reviews mention 4-MBC as one of the
several UV filters but here we focus on 4-MBC only. We cover the
potential effects on human health regarding systemic and molecular
effects, with the focus on reproduction. We also cover the potential
bioaccumulation and interactions with receptor systems, such as the
estrogen receptors β and α, and progesterone receptor, and analyze
4-MBC´s effects on mRNA expression and protein expression. Furthermore,
4-MBC is reported to act with inflammatory pathways by activating p38
MAPK and NF-κB, leading to the production of inflammatory TNF-α and
IL-6. In conclusion, 4-MBC has wide ranging effects in different models
while there is more research warranted to detail the mechanism of
action, long-term effects at low doses and the potential interaction
with many pathways and other pollutants.