Exposure to Dibutyl Phthalate and Reproductive-Related Outcomes in Animal Models: Evidence From Rodents Study

Abstract

Background: Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) was an endocrine disruptor, which may lead to cancer and affects reproductive function when accumulated in the body. But the precise role of DBP in the reproductive system remained controversial.Objective: We employed the meta-analysis to explore the relationship between DBP and reproductive-related outcomes.Methods: We searched relevant literature in PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. The standardized mean differences (SMDs) and their 95% CIs were measured by random-effects models. Funnel plots and Egger’s regression test were applied to assess publication bias.Results: Finally, 19 literatures were included in this research. The outcomes revealed that DBP was negatively correlated with reproductive organs weight (testis weight: SMD: −0.59; 95% Cl: −1.23, −0.23; seminal vesicles weight: SMD: −0.74; 95% Cl: −1.21, −0.27; prostate weight: SMD: −0.46; 95% Cl: −0.76, −0.16) and sperm parameters (sperm morphology: SMD: 1.29; 95% Cl: 0.63, 1.94; sperm count: SMD: −1.81; 95% Cl: −2.39, −1.23; sperm motility: SMD: −1.92; 95% Cl: −2.62, −1.23).Conclusion: Our research demonstrated that DBP may be negatively associated with reproductive-related indicators, especially at Gestation exposure period and middle dose (100–500 mg/kg/day).

Adult Exposure to Di-N-Butyl Phthalate (DBP) Induces Persistent Effects on Testicular Cell Markers and Testosterone Biosynthesis in Mice

“…We observed increased levels in both treatment groups, suggesting that a disruption of enzyme function could be due to reactive species production. This is in accordance with several studies showing that phthalates elicit oxidative stress [ 10 , 12 ] and disrupt steroidogenesis [ 9 , 10 , 18 ]. However, more studies are necessary to fully elucidate how DBP exposure is affecting the steroidogenic enzymes.…”

“…Several in vivo toxicological studies have also shown that DBP is an endocrine disruptor, mainly by reducing testosterone levels, and that DBP exposure affects reproductive health by, for example, reducing semen motility and production [ 7 , 8 ]. Despite these previous studies on the effects of DBP exposure [ 7 , 9 ], there are still important knowledge gaps regarding the mechanisms behind these effects.…”

Effect of Phthalates and Their Substitutes on the Physiology of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

“…Thus, the effects of the studied compounds may reflect a physiological adaptation of P. aeruginosa upon exposure. Several Pseudomonas species, which have been isolated from contaminated soils such as industrial mining areas or intensive crop lands [38], are indeed able to metabolize phthalates, including DBP [57,58], which is one of the most toxic phthalic acid esters [59]. This ability is of particular interest in terms of bioremediation and soil decontamination [60].…”

Longitudinal Associations between Prenatal Exposure to Phthalates and Steroid Hormones in Maternal Hair Samples from the SEPAGES Cohort

“…MnBP is known to exert antiandrogenic actions in male ,, and female reproductive organs. ,– However, interspecies differences in glucocorticoids precluded us from comparing our MnBP results to the rodent studies available. , Since comparison with other epidemiological studies is neither possible, the MnBP-related increase in 11-dehydrocorticosterone levels among women carrying male fetuses is difficult to interpret and needs to be confirmed in future studies.…”