Endocrine disrupting chemicals and male fertility: from physiological to molecular effects

Abstract

The deleterious effects of chemical or non-chemical endocrine disruptors (EDs) on male fertility potential is well documented but still not fully elucidated. For example, the detection of industrial chemicals’ metabolites in seminal plasma and follicular fluid can affect efficiency of the gametogenesis, the maturation and competency of gametes and has guided scientists to hypothesize that endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may disrupt hormonal homoeostasis by leading to a wide range of hormonal control impairments. The effects of EDCs exposure on reproductive health are highly dependent on factors including the type of EDCs, the duration of exposure, individual susceptibility, and the presence of other co-factors. Research and scientists continue to study these complex interactions. The aim of this review is to summarize the literature to better understand the potential reproductive health risks of EDCs in France.

Functional role of autophagy in testicular and ovarian steroidogenesis

“…In addition, there is a recent surge in investigations that endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have been shown to influence steroidogenesis, and emerging evidence suggests potential effects on autophagy within steroid-producing cells (Zhu et al, 2019;Lahimer et al, 2023). For instance, when male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to high levels of bisphenol AF, there was a decrease in number of Leydig cells and a downregulation of CYP17A1, along with other genetic markers in Leydig and Sertoli cells.…”

Advancing Endocrine Disruptors via In Vitro Evaluation: Recognizing the Significance of the Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development and United States Environmental Protection Agency Guidelines, Embracing New Assessment Methods, and the Urgent Need for a Comprehensive Battery of Tests

“…Today, there is a worldwide consensus on this definition. These effects can range from developmental abnormalities and reproductive disorders to neurobehavioral changes and cancer [ 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 ].…”

Integrative Approach to Address Male Infertility: A Case Study on Organophosphorus Compound Exposure and Traditional Medicinal Interventions

“…Male infertility can be caused by a variety of biological and environmental causes like exposure to toxins and pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and industrial chemicals, which can disrupt hormonal balance and impair reproductive function and also autoimmune diseases that attack sperm, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders, and other conditions. One such EDC that reduces male fertility is organophosphorus compounds (OPCs) [3]. Numerous environmental factors, such as pesticides and herbicides, have been linked to the global decline in male fertility.…”