Endocrine disruption by emergent brominated flame retardant Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) promotes cancer-associated characteristics in human breast cells and zebrafish xenografts.

Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) promotes cancer-like traits in human breast cells and zebrafish xenografts, indicating potential health risks of this flame retardant.

• Why it matters: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals like DBDPE are widespread and may contribute to cancer development, yet their safety profiles are not fully understood, especially for replacement compounds.
• What they did: The study examined DBDPE's effects on human breast cell lines and zebrafish xenografts, analyzing gene expression, cell proliferation, and migration across multiple doses.
• The result: Findings show DBDPE influences hormone receptor expression and enhances proliferation and migration in vivo, underscoring the need for thorough hazard testing of such chemicals before widespread use.