Endocrine Disruptor: DDT

DDT: Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, CCl₃CH(C₆H₄Cl)<sub>2






What is the source</sub>

DDT is a white crystalline solid with no apparent odor or taste. It is a man-made organochlorine consisting of a mixture of DichloroDiphenylTrichloroethane isomers. DDT was developed during World War II to control a wide variety of insects. It is also used to control insects that carry malaria, typhus, and other harmful disease in third world countries.

<sub>What does it disrupt

DDT interferes with reproductive development.</sub> 
DDT inhibits the proper development of female reproductive organs which affects reproduction into maturity. DDT exposure has an effect on the decrease in fertility in adult males.

How does it disrupt

DDT induces enzymes to produce other genotoxic intermediates and DNA adducts. The DDT metabolite, DDE, acts as an antoandrogen.

What can we do

There is a costly, but effective method to dissolve DDT which involves the use of super-critical CO2 . Under extreme pressure and temperature, CO2 has the capability to act as a solvent to dissolve DDT. This method can be used to clear DDT from contaminated soils.