BIOL 404- The Effects of Dioxin-like Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) on the Development of Myeloid Suppressor Cells

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a man-made organic compound consisting of two phenyl rings connected by a single bond, with any number of chlorine molecules occupying positions around the rings. They are most commonly used as a dielectric and coolant fluid in electrical generators and transformers. Manufacture has declined drastically since the 1970s in America due to their exertion of estrogen-mimicking effects in the body, although they continue to persist in harmful concentrations in the environment. PCBs are endocrine-disrupting, and through estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects have been shown to increase breast cancer risk by changing gene expression in several genes common to the formation of breast tissue cancer cells, including IGF-1, which fuels all stages of cancer growth. We intend to test cells in vitro for additional sensitivities to the estrogen mimicking effects of PCB 138 and PCB 153. This will hopefully elucidate the mechanistic effects of PCBs on the endocrine system.