Non-genomic effects of endocrine disrupters: inhibition of estrogen sulfotransferase by phenols and chlorinated phenols

Phenols are used world-wide and their presence in the environment is a cause of increasing concern. Despite evidence to suggest that, in general, they bind poorly to estrogen receptors, they are suspected of being endocrine disrupters. Here, we show that 2, x-substituted phenols are potent inhibitors of estrogen sulfotransferase with IC(50) values at low- or sub-micromolar levels. Our results demonstrate a potential non-genomic mechanism of action for these compounds and suggest that, where viable alternatives exist, both phenols substituted in the 2-position and their metabolic precursors should be avoided.