Assessment of Estrogen-like Effects of Isobutyl Paraben in Wistar Albino Rats Using the Uterotrophic Assay

This study aims to evaluate the estrogen-like effects of isobutyl paraben (IBP) using the uterotrophic assay in ovariectomized (OVX) Wistar albino rats. The primary objective was to establish a dose-response relationship between uterine weight and subcutaneous administration of 17-ethinyl estradiol (EE) as a reference estrogen and IBP as a potential endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC). Parabens, widely used as preservatives in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food, have raised concerns regarding their endocrine-disrupting properties. The study was conducted following the OCSPP guideline 890.1600 established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to assess estrogenic activity. Our findings demonstrate that IBP exposure resulted in significant physiological and histological changes in the uterus, comparable to EE, indicating its potential estrogenic effects. These results highlight the implications of IBP in endocrine disruption, raising concerns about its impact on reproductive health. The study underscores the need for stringent regulatory measures and further toxicological investigations to reassess the safety standards for IBP and similar EDCs, given their widespread presence in consumer products.