Reprotoxic Impact of Environment, Diet, and Behavior

Abstract

Reproductive health is progressively declining due to multiples endogenous and exogenous factors, such as environmental contaminants, diet and behavior. Accumulated evidences confirm that fertility and reproductive function have been adversely affected by exposure to chemical contaminants released in the environment. Today, the impact of diet and behavior on reproductive processes is also receiving special attention from the scientific community. Indeed, a close relationship between diet and fertility has been proven. Furthermore, a combination of unhealthy behavior, such as exposure to hazardous compounds and stress factors, poses living organisms at higher risk of reprotoxic effects. In particular, it has been described that poor life behaviors are associated with reduced male and female fertility due to decreased gamete quality and function. Most of the erroneous behaviors are, furthermore, a source of oxidative stress that, leading to epigenetic alterations, results in an impaired reproductive fitness. This review reports the detrimental impact of the most common environmental chemical stressors, diet, and behavior on reproductive functionality and success. Although clear evidences are still scarce, reassuring data are provided that a healthy diet and reverting unhealthy lifestyles may be of help to recover physiological reproductive conditions.

Accumulation of endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) in Procambarus Virginalis tissue in Dnipro river: ecological and hygienic aspects

“…Some EDCs have a genotoxic effect, causing deoxyguanosine hydroxylation and/or DNA strand breaks (both single and double), thereby promoting the malignant transformation of affected cells. Numerous endogenous and exogenous factors, such as environmental pollution and diet lead to the deterioration of the reproductive health of individuals of all links of the food chain [3,14,15].…”

“…The first stage occurs during vitogenesis when maternal cortisol is incorporated into the yolk, and the second stage occurs during maturation and ovulation, when cortisol can play a regulatory role, causing maturation [21]. It has been shown that the stress-induced increase in cortisol, associated with a decrease in estradiol, affects the functions of granulosa cells in the follicle, worsening the quality of oocytes [15]. Recent studies suggest that this hormone may act as a key factor linking the stimuli of the social environment and the onset of sex change, initiating the transition in steroidogenesis from estrogen to androgen.…”

Risk Factors for Infertility in Korean Women

“… 39 In Western countries, Westernized dietary habits, stress, and environmental pollution have been reported to affect reproductive function. 40 Lifestyle changes, including alcohol consumption and smoking status may exert intricate effects, potentially contributing to the increasing prevalence of infertility. Understanding these factors is crucial for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies.…”

A toxicological perspective on climate change and the exposome

“…Different mechanisms are involved, depending on the nature of the stressor. Many chemicals are also known to lead to reprotoxicity, in particular, endocrine disruptors ( 36 , 37 ).…”