Bisphenol A and Its Analogues: Implications for Gut Microbiome Health

Bisphenol A (BPA) and its structural analogues are widely used in consumer products and have raised concerns because of their potential effects on the gut microbiome. This review summarizes experimental and epidemiological evidence on the effects of BPA and its analogues, including BPS, BPF, BPAF, BPB, BPP, and TMBPF, on gut microbial composition and function. Across multiple models, bisphenol exposure is associated with gut dysbiosis, reduced microbial diversity, depletion of beneficial taxa, impaired intestinal barrier integrity, altered short-chain fatty acid production, and increased inflammatory signaling. Although most evidence derives from animal and in vitro studies, human evidence remains limited and the translational relevance of these findings requires further investigation. Important knowledge gaps remain regarding chronic low-dose exposure, mixture effects, and the safety of replacement bisphenols. Current evidence supports the gut microbiome as a potential mediator of bisphenol toxicity and highlights its relevance for toxicological risk assessment and future human-focused research.