Researchers conducted studies of pregnant mice, exposing them to bisphenol A (BPA) -- an estrogen-like chemical used to manufacture plastic water bottles, baby bottles and food storage containers and dental fillings and products. The mice were given a range of doses of BPA between the ninth and 16th days of their pregnancies.

Scientists monitored the effects the chemical had on expression of a gene responsible for uterine development in the fetus. The results suggest that exposure to the chemical may lead to infertility after the female offspring reaches adulthood.

"The net effect is concerning," lead investigator Dr. Hugh S. Taylor said in a press release. "We are all exposed to multiple estrogen-like chemicals in industrial products, food and pollutants."

The study was published in the January issue of the Journal of the Federation of American Societies of Experimental Biology.

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