A review on teratogenic effects due to the impact of medicinal agents and environmental toxins

Abstract

Teratogenesis is the formation of abnormal or deformed body. It’s a process of inducing Birth defects in fetus. Birth defects include brain injury, heart abnormalities, kidney defects or defects in spinal cord.   It occurs if teratogenic agents (chemical agents, metal, pharmacological agents or environmental toxins) being exposed to fetus during organogenesis period of 3-8 weeks. Presently the prevalence of teratogenic effect varies according to specific drug, genetic basis, population. The purpose of this review is to understand the mechanism behind the teratogenic effects, risk factors and to control their exposure to pregnant women. It includes drugs (Thalidomide, Isotrinitoin, phenytoin and valporic acid, alcohol) that can adversely affect fetus organ development and tissue formation by impeding cell division which is necessary for blastocyte formation, organ development. Moreover, environmental toxins as heavy metals (Mercury, Lead, and Cadmium) cause various carcinogenic, immunotoxicant and various malformations and even death in embryo and fetuses. The mechanism involve behind the teratogenic effects include folate antagonism, endocrine disturbance, Oxidative pressure, Vascular disturbance and specific receptor and enzyme mediated teratogenesis. The risk factors that increase the risk for teratogenic effects include poor maternal nutrition, maternal age (>35), maternal health conditions. Preventive measures should be taken to avoid teratogenic effects as period of first trimester is most important for the organ development of fetus so it’s necessary to avoid the exposure of teratogens it also include discontinuation of medications related to acute or chronic conditions. Taking herbal therapy, neuropathic therapy and acupuncture therapy play a great role in promoting good maternal health and prevent adverse teratogenic effects.