Abstract:
Decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) is a new brominated flame retardant and the main substitute of decabromodiphenyl ether, widely used in electronic appliances, plastic products, textiles, and other industrial products. It can enter the surrounding environment through volatilization or effusion in the process of production, use, and disposal, and result in biological enrichment and amplification. China as a large manufacturer of electronic products has rapidly increased its production capacity for DBDPE to meet the steeply climbing demand, and also pay attention to the environmental pollution and toxic effects brought by its extensive application. At present, much research has been conducted to describe the environmental distribution of DBDPE, as it widely exists in atmosphere, soil, sediment, sludge, and outdoor dust. However, there are few studies on the toxic effects of DBDPE, and the relevant mechanisms remain unclear. This review focused on the research progress on the environmental distribution and toxic effects of DBDPE. It started with the distribution of DBDPE in the environment and organisms; then summarized the toxic effects of DBDPE, such as reproductive and developmental toxicity, thyroid hormone disruption toxicity, liver and kidney toxicity, neurotoxicity, and cardiovascular toxicity, with detailed information about the first two; and finally compiled the possible mechanisms of its toxicity, aiming to provide new ideas and insights for further research.