Commission launches web portal on endocrine disrupter research

Brussels, 16 Jul 2003

The Commission's Research DG has a launched a new web portal offering an overview of the European Union's many activities in the field of endocrine disrupter research.

The endocrine system is made up of a set of glands, hormones and receptors that regulate not only reproduction but also growth, blood pressure and blood sugar, the body's metabolism, the functioning of the brain and the nervous system. However, a wide range of chemicals - known as endocrine disrupters - are believed to interfere with the endocrine system, and cause adverse health effects in both humans and animals.

In seeking to better inform the public, the web portal provides background information about the endocrine system, the disrupters and health effects, as well as useful links.

The portal also reviews the institutional framework, the EU strategy on endocrine disrupters, and current activities undertaken by the different DGs. In the case of the research framework programmes, the portal shows completed and ongoing projects, as well as network clusters and new opportunities in the field of endocrine disruption.

A news and events section is also expected to help interested stakeholders to remain informed on the latest developments in endocrine disruption research and related policy decisions.

Under the Sixth Framework Programme, endocrine disruption is being specifically addressed by Priority 5 (Food quality and safety) and, to a lesser extent, by Priority 6 (Sustainable development, global change and ecosystems.

To access the new portal, please visit: http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/endoc rine/index_en.html

CORDIS RTD-NEWS / © European Communities