Endocrine-disrupting chemicals in aquatic ecosystems and their impacts on aquatic organisms and humans with advances in detection and remediation.

The increasing anthropogenic burden, driven by population growth and intensified industrial and agricultural practices, has led to the widespread release of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) into aquatic ecosystems, with significant implications for both environmental and human health. Many studies have reported the concentrations and toxicological effects of EDCs in aquatic environments, but few have addressed detection methods and remediation techniques. This review aims to highlight the sources, dynamics, and bioaccumulation of EDCs in aquatic ecosystems, along with their toxic effects on aquatic species and associated health risks in humans. Additionally, we provide an overview of advanced detection and remediation techniques. Our review found that EDCs, particularly phthalates and bisphenols, included in industrial effluents, domestic waste, and agricultural runoff, are frequently discharged into aquatic bodies through human activities. EDCs are associated with various toxic effects in aquatic organisms, such as bioaccumulation, transgenerational effects, reduced growth, immunotoxicity, DNA damage, and abnormal hormonal release, which impair reproductive development. Among the detection methods, biosensors, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are promising tools for EDC detection relative to conventional analytical methods in aquatic systems. Emerging remediation techniques, such as hybrid activated carbon systems and N-doped carbon-based adsorbents, are recommended for their high removal efficiency. This review serves as a valuable resource for advancing research on EDC toxicity, detection, and remediation technologies.