Description: A teratogen is an agent or factor that causes malformations in an embryo or fetus during prenatal development. These agents can be of chemical, physical, or biological nature and can interfere with the normal development process, causing structural or functional anomalies in the forming organism. Teratogens can act at different stages of embryonic development, and their effect may depend on the timing of exposure, the dose, and the genetic susceptibility of the individual. Malformations can range from minor defects to severe conditions that affect the viability of the fetus. The identification and study of teratogens are crucial in developmental biology, as they help to understand the mechanisms underlying congenital malformations and to develop strategies to prevent them. Research in this field has also led to the creation of public health guidelines to minimize exposure to these agents during pregnancy, thereby protecting the health of the mother and the development of the fetus.
History: The term ‘teratogen’ was introduced in the 1940s when scientists began investigating the causes of congenital malformations. One of the most significant milestones in the history of teratology was the discovery that thalidomide, a drug used to treat nausea in pregnancy, caused severe birth defects in the 1960s. This event led to increased awareness of the risks of certain medications and substances during pregnancy, as well as stricter regulation of drugs. Since then, research on teratogens has evolved, identifying a variety of agents, including viruses, radiation, and chemicals, that can affect fetal development.
Uses: The study of teratogens is fundamental in medicine and public health, as it allows for the identification of risk factors that can affect fetal development. This has led to the creation of guidelines for the safe use of medications during pregnancy and to the education of pregnant women about exposure to potentially harmful substances. Additionally, research on teratogens contributes to the development of treatments and prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of congenital malformations.
Examples: Examples of teratogens include alcohol, which can cause fetal alcohol syndrome, and certain medications like valproic acid, which has been associated with neural tube defects. Other teratogens are infections such as rubella and cytomegalovirus, which can lead to malformations in the fetus if the mother is infected during pregnancy.
