Great review article on the endocrine disrupting role of Cadmium. Cadmium binds to the ER-alpha inducing an estrogen signal. Cadmium also binds to the androgen receptor as well. This study proposes a similar activation of ER-alpha and AR by Cadmium.
Cadmium levels found to be positively associated with serum Testosterone levels in women. Cadmium inversely associated with E2 levels. Cadmium has been associated with increased breast cancer risk in women.
Animal study finds that Cadmium is estrogenic. This study found that not only was Cadmium an endocrine disruptor for the pregnant animals, but was also estrogenic in the mammary glands of the offspring.
Several interesting points about this article. Cadmium is a non-carcinogen. Cadmium acts through estrogen receptors. Cd acts as an estrogen. Second, melatonin inhibits ER alpha, which promotes inflammation and growth signaling.
study finds women living in North Carolina exposed to Cadmium, Mercury, Arsenic, and Lead in the prenatal period. These levels exceed that considered "safe".
Cadmium exposure/toxicity promotes prostate tumor growth and it does this via a AR independent process. The authors propose that it is via estrogen receptors and estrogen signaling from DHT metabolites.
Study finds higher Pb levels in young girls is associated with delayed puberty onset. This occurs through an inverse relationship with inhibin B and follicular development. This relationship was also found with Cadmium. Both of these heavy metals are toxic to the ovaries.