Environmental and occupational pesticide exposure and human sperm parameters: A Navigation Guide review

Association between dietary intake estimated levels of PCDD/Fs and human sperm quality

This study aimed to investigate the association between estimated dietary intake of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and human sperm quality. This study cross-sectionally assessed the associations between estimated dietary intake of PCDD/Fs and sperm quality parameters in 200 participants aged 18-40 years from the Led-Fertyl study. Linear regression models, accounting for potential confounding variables, were employed to evaluate the relationships. To estimate the PCDD/Fs exposure, food frequency questionnaires and the latest data on PCDD/Fs concentrations in food, primarily from Spanish sources, were used. Our findings indicate that, in comparison to participants in the lowest tertile, those in the highest tertile (T3) of PCDD/Fs dietary intake exhibited significantly elevated body mass index, increased consumption of meat, fish and eggs, and decreased consumption of nuts. Furthermore, individuals in T3 demonstrated a higher percentage of sperm head abnormalities (4.65% [0.10; 9.24]; p-trend= 0.037) and a corresponding increase per 1-SD increment in energy-adjusted total PCDD/Fs dietary intake (1.84% [0.38; 3.68]). No significant associations for other sperm parameters were found. Minimal research exists on PCDD/F dietary exposure and human sperm quality. This study shows significant direct association between higher PCDD/Fs intake and the percentage of sperm head abnormalities which potentially may compromise human reproductive health.

Environmental and occupational exposure to organochlorine pesticides associated with Parkinson's disease risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis based on epidemiological evidence

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to analyze the association between environmental and occupational organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) exposure and Parkinson's disease (PD) risk.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of articles before March 18, 2024, was conducted through PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Medlin and Web of Science databases, and the relevant data were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI). Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate literature quality. STATA (Version 11.0) was used for analysis.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 17 case-control studies. The results showed that OCPs exposure increased PD risk, including seven blood sample assessment exposure (BOCPs) studies (OR = 1.54, 95 % CI = 1.32-1.79) and 10 indirect assessment exposure (IOCPs) studies (OR = 1.19, 95 % CI = 1.04-1.35). Location subgroup analysis showed that OCPs was positively associated with PD risk in Asia, while there was no statistical significance in North America and Europe. The IOCPs functional subclasses subgroup results suggested that organochlorine insecticides were significantly associated with PD risk (OR = 1.18, 95%CI = 1.03-1.37). Study time may be a factor of high heterogeneity in BOCPs. In addition, BOCPs (OR = 1.49, 95%CI = 1.28-1.74) and IOCPs (OR = 1.10, 95%CI = 0.95-1.26) showed different results with PD risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Study suggests that OCPs exposure may be a risk factor for PD, but there may be location and OCPs type differences.

A novel approach to triazole fungicides risk characterization: Bridging human biomonitoring and computational toxicology

Brazil stands as the world's leading coffee producer, where the extensive use of pesticides is economically critical yet poses health and environmental risks due to their non-selective mechanisms of action. Specifically, triazole fungicides are widely used in agriculture to manage fungal diseases and are known to disrupt mammalian CYP450 and liver microsomal enzymes. This research establishes a framework for risk characterization of human exposure to triazole fungicides by internal-dose biomonitoring, biochemical marker measurements, and integration of high-throughput screening (HTS) data via computational toxicology workflows from the Integrated Chemical Environment (ICE). Volunteers from the southern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, were divided into two groups: farmworkers and spouses occupationally and environmentally exposed to pesticides from rural areas (n = 140) and individuals from the urban area to serve as a comparison group (n = 50). Three triazole fungicides, cyproconazole, epoxiconazole, and triadimenol, were detected in the urine samples of both men and women in the rural group. Androstenedione and testosterone hormones were significantly reduced in the farmworker group (Mann-Whitney test, p < 0.0001). The data show a significant inverse association of testosterone with cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, triglycerides, and glucose and a direct association with HDL (Spearman's correlation, p < 0.05). In the ICE workflow, active in vitro HTS assays were identified for the three measured triazoles and three other active ingredients from the pesticide formulations. The curated HTS data confirm bioactivities predominantly related to steroid hormone metabolism, cellular stress processes, and CYP450 enzymes impacted by fungicide exposure at occupationally and environmentally relevant concentrations based on the in vitro to in vivo extrapolation models. These results characterize the potentially significant human health risk, particularly from the high frequency and intensity of exposure to epoxiconazole. This study showcases the critical role of biomonitoring and utility of computational tools in evaluating pesticide exposure and minimizing the risk.

Evaluation of seminal plasma levels of vaspin and visfatin in infertile males with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation index: a comparative study

BACKGROUND

Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) can significantly impact male fertility, especially in cases where there is a substantial level of DNA damage. We aimed in the current study to assess seminal plasma (SP) levels of vaspin and visfatin in infertile men with an elevated SDF index (SDFI ≥ 30%) compared to infertile males with a normal SDFI (SDFI < 30%).

RESULTS

Groups with good and medium DNA integrity exhibited significantly higher total motile sperm count and sperm motility in comparison to the group with poor DNA integrity. Significant negative correlations were noticed between SDF index (SDFI) and numerous semen parameters. Similarly, a significant negative correlation was observed between SDFI and SP vaspin. On the other hand, a significant positive correlation was found between SDFI and abnormal forms percentage. A statistically significant negative correlation was identified SP vaspin with age (r = -0.305, P = 0.006) and infertility duration (r = -0.263, P = 0.019). Statistically significant negative correlation was also identified between SP visfatin and abnormal forms percentage (r = -0.239, P = 0.034). The receiver operating characterisitic curve for predicting poor DNA integrity (SDFI ≥ 30%) revealed fair discriminative power for SP vaspin, with a cutoff value of < 0.55 ng/ml. It demonstrated a sensitivity of 58.8% and a specificity of 64.5% (area under the cureve (AUC) 0.685, p = 0.008). Meanwhile, SP visfatin had little discriminative power (AUC 0.562, p = 0.408). Finally, the results of a linear regression analysis indicated that sperm motility and SP vaspin were significant independent predictors of poor DNA integrity (SDFI ≥ 30%). The analysis was done with a 95% confidence interval and showed upper and lower bounds of -0.302 and -0.623, and -1.362 and -16.101, p < 0.001, p = 0.021, respectively.

CONCLUSION

SP Level of vaspin had shown promise as potential biomarkers for sperm DNA integrity. However, vaspin appeared to have greater specificity than visfatin in this point. Future studies are required to validate these findings, evaluate the role of SP vaspin in maintaining sperm DNA integrity, and investigate the potential relationship between SP adipocytokines and other clinical-demographic variables.

Protective impact of Betanin against noise and scrotal hyperthermia on testicular toxicity in Wistar rat: Role of apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation

The heat exposure and white noise can induce damage on reproductive organs. The main objective of this study is to observe, if betanin administration could ameliorate oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in testis of rodents following noise and scrotal hyperthermia exposure. Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups; control, betanin, noise, hyperthermia and two treatment groups. Scrotal hyperthermia model was performed by heat exposure of rat testicular (43 °C) for 15 min and 3 times per weeks for 14 days. Noise induction model was done following exposure of rats with 100-dB noise level for 14 days and 8 h daily similar to real exposure condition in human. Betanin was administrated at the sub-effective dose (15 mg/kg) by gavage route for 4 weeks (5 times a week) to male rats. The animals were euthanized and testis were dissected and stored at -80 °C. Then, the oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA and GSH), apoptosis (cytochrome c & Annexin V), and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α & IL-6) were measured by the real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of testis collected samples. The data output demonstrates the impact of noise and hyperthermia in testicular toxicity induction by mitigating oxidative damage, apoptosis and inflammatory mediators. Following treatment with 15 mg/kg per day of betanin, lipid peroxidation and GSH content have been modulated, and TNF-α and IL-6 gene expression has been declined. Our results revealed that in Wistar rats, betanin displays protective effects against noise and scrotal hyperthermia-induced acute testicular toxicity through the inhibition of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation.

Associations between exposure to pesticides mixture and semen quality among the non-occupationally exposed males: Four statistical models

Most epidemiological studies on the associations between pesticides exposure and semen quality have been based on a single pesticide, with inconsistent major results. In contrast, there was limited human evidence on the potential effect of pesticides mixture on semen quality. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship of pesticide profiles with semen quality parameters among 299 non-occupationally exposed males aged 25-50 without any clinical abnormalities. Serum concentrations of 21 pesticides were quantified by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Semen quality parameters were abstracted from medical records. Generalized linear regression models (GLMs) and three mixture approaches, including weighted quantile sum regression (WQS), elastic net regression (ENR) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR), were applied to explore the single and mixed effects of pesticide exposure on semen quality. In GLMs, as the serum levels of Bendiocarb, β-BHC, Clomazone, Dicrotophos, Dimethenamid, Paclobutrazole, Pentachloroaniline and Pyrimethanil increased, the straight-line velocity (VSL), linearity (LIN) and straightness (STR) decreased. This negative association also occurred between the concentration of β-BHC, Pentachloroaniline, Pyrimethanil and progressive motility, total motility. In the WQS models, pesticides mixture was negatively associated with total motility and several sperm motility parameters (β: -3.07∼-1.02 per decile, FDR-P<0.05). After screening the important pesticides derived from the mixture by ENR model, the BKMR models showed that the decreased qualities for VSL, LIN, and STR were also observed when pesticide mixtures were at ≥ 70th percentiles. Clomazone, Dimethenamid, and Pyrimethanil (Posterior inclusion probability, PIP: 0.2850-0.8900) were identified as relatively important contributors. The study provides evidence that exposure to single or mixed pesticide was associated with impaired semen quality.

The Effect of Various Environmental Pollutants on the Reproductive Health in Children: A Brief Review of the Literature

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Environmental pollutants in air, water, soil, and food are a significant concern due to their potential adverse effects on fetuses, newborns, babies, and children. These chemicals, which pass to fetuses and babies through trans-placental transfer, breast milk, infant formula, dermal transfer, and non-nutritive ingestion, can cause health problems during childhood. This review aims to discuss how exposure to various environmental pollutants in early life stages can disrupt reproductive health in children.

RECENT FINDINGS

Environmental pollutants can affect Leydig cell proliferation and differentiation, decreasing testosterone production throughout life. This may result in cryptorchidism, hypospadias, impaired semen parameters, and reduced fertility. Although many studies on female reproductive health cannot be interpreted to support causal relationships, exposure to pollutants during critical windows may subsequently induce female reproductive diseases, including early or delayed puberty, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and cancers. There is growing evidence that fetal and early-life exposure to environmental pollutants could affect reproductive health in childhood. Although diet is thought to be the primary route by which humans are exposed to various pollutants, there are no adopted nutritional interventions to reduce the harmful effects of pollutants on children's health. Therefore, understanding the impact of environmental contaminants on various health outcomes may inform the design of future human nutritional studies.

Episodic ozone exposure in Long-Evans rats has limited effects on cauda sperm motility and non-coding RNA populations

Epidemiological evidence suggests the potential for air pollutants to induce male reproductive toxicity. In experimental studies, exposure to ozone during sensitive windows in the sperm lifecycle has been associated with impaired sperm motility. Subsequently, we sought to investigate the effects of episodic exposure to ozone during sperm maturation in the rat. Long-Evans rats were exposed to either filtered air or ozone (0.4 or 0.8 ppm) for five non-consecutive days over two weeks. Ozone exposure did not impact male reproductive organ weights or sperm motility ∼24 hours following the final exposure. Furthermore, circulating sex hormones remained unchanged despite increased T3 and T4 in the 0.8 ppm group. While there was indication of altered adrenergic signaling attributable to ozone exposure in the testis, there were minimal impacts on small non-coding RNAs detected in cauda sperm. Only two piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) were altered in the mature sperm of ozone-exposed rats (piR-rno-346434 and piR-rno-227431). Data across all rats were next analyzed to identify any non-coding RNAs that may be correlated with reduced sperm motility. A total of 7 microRNAs (miRNAs), 8 RNA fragments, and 1682 piRNAs correlated well with sperm motility. Utilizing our exposure paradigm herein, we were unable to substantiate the relationship between ozone exposure during maturation with sperm motility. However, these approaches served to identify a suite of non-coding RNAs that were associated with sperm motility in rats. With additional investigation, these RNAs may prove to have functional roles in the acquisition of motility or be unique biomarkers for male reproductive toxicity.

Combined effects of polystyrene nanoplastics and lipopolysaccharide on testosterone biosynthesis and inflammation in mouse testis

Microplastics (MPs)/nanoplastics (NPs), as a source and vector of pathogenic bacteria, are widely distributed in the natural environments. Here, we investigated the combined effects of polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) on testicular function in mice for the first time. 24 male mice were randomly assigned into 4 groups, control, PS-NPs, LPS, and PS-NPs + LPS, respectively. Histological alterations of the testes were observed in mice exposed to PS-NPs, LPS or PS-NPs + LPS. Total sperm count, the levels of testosterone in plasma and testes, the expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) decreased more remarkable in testes of mice treated with PS-NPs and LPS than the treatment with LPS or PS-NPs alone. Compared with PS-NPs treatment, LPS treatment induced more sever inflammatory response in testes of mice. Moreover, PS-NPs combined with LPS treatment increased the expression of these inflammatory factors more significantly than LPS treatment alone. In addition, PS-NPs or LPS treatment induced oxidative stress in testes of mice, but their combined effect is not significantly different from LPS treatment alone. These results suggest that PS-NPs exacerbate LPS-induced testicular dysfunction. Our results provide new evidence for the threats to male reproductive function induced by both NPs and bacterial infection in human health.

Curative effects of tectochrysin on paraquat-instigated testicular toxicity in rats: A biochemical and histopathological based study

Background

Paraquat (PQ) is a herbicide that is used globally in the agriculture sector to eradicate unwanted weeds, however it also induces significant damages in various organs of the body such as testes. Tectochrysin (TEC) is an important flavonoid that shows versatile therapeutic potentials. Currently, there is no established antidote to cure PQ-induced testicular toxicity.

Objective

The present study was conducted to evaluate the ameliorative effects of TEC against PQ prompted testicular damage.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 48) were used to conduct the trial. Rats were allocated in to 4 groups i.e., Control, PQ administrated group (5 mgkg-1), PQ + TEC co-administrated group (5 mgkg-1 + 2.5 mgkg-1) and TEC only administrated group (2.5 mgkg-1). The trial was conducted for 8 weeks. The activity of anti-oxidants and the levels of MDA and ROS were determined by spectrophotometric method. Steroidogenic enzymes as well as apoptotic markers expressions were evaluated by qRT-PCR. The level of hormones and inflammatory indices was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

PQ exposure markedly (P < 0.05) disturbed the biochemical, spermatogenic and histological profile in the rats. Nevertheless, TEC treatment considerably (P < 0.05) increased CAT, GPx GSR and SOD activity, besides decreasing MDA and ROS contents. TEC administration also increased sperm viability, count and motility. 17β-HSD, 3β-HSD, StAR and Bcl-2 expressions were also increased following TEC administration. The supplementation of TEC substantially (P < 0.05) decreased Bax, Caspase-3 expression and the levels of inflammatory markers i.e., interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) activity. Additionally, the levels of plasma testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were increased following TEC supplementation. Furthermore, TEC supplementation considerably decreased sperm structural abnormalities and histomorphological damages of the testes. The mitigative role of TEC might be due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, androgenic and anti-oxidant potentials.

Conclusion

Taken together, it is concluded that TEC can be used as a potential candidate to treat testicular toxicity.

The adverse role of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the reproductive system

Reproductive system diseases pose prominent threats to human physical and mental well-being. Besides being influenced by genetic material regulation and changes in lifestyle, the occurrence of these diseases is closely connected to exposure to harmful substances in the environment. Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), characterized by hormone-like effects, have a wide range of influences on the reproductive system. EDCs are ubiquitous in the natural environment and are present in a wide range of industrial and everyday products. Currently, thousands of chemicals have been reported to exhibit endocrine effects, and this number is likely to increase as the testing for potential EDCs has not been consistently required, and obtaining data has been limited, partly due to the long latency of many diseases. The ability to avoid exposure to EDCs, especially those of artificially synthesized origin, is increasingly challenging. While EDCs can be divided into persistent and non-persistent depending on their degree of degradation, due to the recent uptick in research studies in this area, we have chosen to focus on the research pertaining to the detrimental effects on reproductive health of exposure to several EDCs that are widely encountered in daily life over the past six years, specifically bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates (PAEs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), parabens, pesticides, heavy metals, and so on. By focusing on the impact of EDCs on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which leads to the occurrence and development of reproductive system diseases, this review aims to provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of EDCs' damage to human health and to encourage further in-depth research to clarify the potentially harmful effects of EDC exposure through various other mechanisms. Ultimately, it offers a scientific basis to enhance EDCs risk management, an endeavor of significant scientific and societal importance for safeguarding reproductive health.

Evaluation of Salvia hispanica as a Therapeutic Agent against Sodium Arsenic-Induced Testicular Toxicity in a Male Rats Model

Chia seeds offer therapeutic properties that aid in the prevention of a variety of ailments, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and other risk factors. Arsenite, a common environmental chemical, has been identified as a reproductive toxin owing to its negative effects on male reproductive health. It has been shown to inhibit spermatogenesis and generate androgenic effects in men. The primary goal of this research was to look into the effect of Salvia hispanica on testicular toxicity caused by sodium arsenite in male rats. A set of 36 male albino rats was allocated to a negative control cohort. The individuals in this group were given a basic meal and orally given distilled water for a duration of 28 days. The other five groups were given a regular meal and received intra-peritoneal injections of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) at a concentration of 4 mg/kg body weight that was diluted in a 0.9% NaCl solution. The injections were administered consecutively, with two doses given within a two-day period. Subsequently, the rats were categorized into several groups using the following classification: Group 2 consisted of a positive control cohort, in which the rats were given a typical baseline diet. Groups 3, 4, 5, and 6 were given a basic diet that included varying proportions of ground chia seeds, namely 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% per 100 g of the diet. After the trial was completed, the rats were euthanized, and further biological examination was conducted. The measurements of the reproductive organs were documented and reported. The research assessed the following characteristics: sperm count, motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology. The research included examining serum sex hormones, namely luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone. An evaluation of the activity of antioxidant enzymes was performed in the tissue of the testicles. There were statistically significant improvements in the sperm parameters, serum sex hormone levels, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as GPX, SOD, and CAT, in the therapy groups. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) exhibited a noteworthy decrease (p ≤ 0.05) when compared to the positive control group. Salvia hispanica seeds have demonstrated a significant level of effectiveness in reducing sodium arsenite-induced testicular toxicity, which leads to the conclusion. The flavonoid content and antioxidant properties of Salvia hispanica seeds may be to blame for the observed behavior. These indicated characteristics may have therapeutic significance in treating testicular harm induced by arsenite exposure.

Self-Rated Health and Semen Quality in Men Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology

Importance

Numerous studies have documented the association of self-rated health (SRH) with chronic diseases. However, few studies have investigated its association with semen quality.

Objective

To examine the association of SRH with semen quality among men undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) in China.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study recruited male partners in couples undergoing ART treatment at the Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, China. A total of 1262 men underwent 2 semen examinations and completed a questionnaire on SRH between December 2018 and January 2020. Data analysis was performed from November 20, 2022, to March 24, 2023.

Exposure

SRH, including overall physical and mental health, as well as reproductive-related physical and mental health specifically, were reported at baseline recruitment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Sperm concentration, sperm progressive motility, sperm motility, and sperm count as semen quality parameters.

Results

The study included 1262 men with a mean (SD) age of 32.79 (5.25) years and body mass index of 24.37 (3.68). Men with poorer SRH had lower semen quality (eg, sperm concentration among poor vs very good overall physical health: percentage variation, -14.67%; 95% CI, -23.62% to -4.66%). Among 4 components of SRH, a greater reduction in semen quality was estimated for reproductive-related SRH compared with overall SRH, whereas the greatest reduction was observed for reproductive-related physical SRH. In comparison with men with very good reproductive-related physical SRH, men with poor reproductive-related physical SRH had differences of -24.78% (95% CI, -32.71% to -15.93%) and -25.61% (95% CI, -33.95% to -16.22%) in sperm count and concentration, respectively, and regression coefficients of -9.38 (95% CI, -12.01 to -6.76) and -9.24 (95% CI, -11.82 to -6.66) for sperm motility and sperm progressive motility, respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study of Chinese men, poorer SRH was associated with lower semen quality, and reproductive-related physical SRH was the most pronounced indicator. Our findings suggest that SRH, especially reproductive-related physical SRH, was a good indicator of semen quality, which should inform public and clinical regulatory decisions.

Sperm morphology: Evaluating its clinical relevance in contemporary fertility practice

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reporting sperm morphology in a standard semen analysis. However, the clinical utility and prognostic value of morphology is often debated.

Methods

We reviewed and summarized studies that assessed both the benefits and limitations of sperm morphology in the context of natural fertility, assisted reproductive technologies, and recurrent pregnancy loss. We additionally describe possible environmental and anatomical etiologies of teratozoospermia.

Results

Sperm morphology evaluation has continuously evolved since the release of the first WHO manual in 1980. Initially, several large studies reported significant inverse associations between fertility outcomes and teratozoospermia. Most recent studies, however, fail to show an association between sperm morphology and natural or assisted fertility outcomes.

Conclusion

Sperm morphology analysis may have limited diagnostic and prognostic value. Providers should be aware of these limitations when counseling or managing infertile patients.

Cypermethrin induces endoplasmic reticulum stress and autophagy, leads to testicular dysfunction

Cypermethrin is a pyrethroid insecticide that is used to control insects and protect crops. However, pesticide residues and their possible toxicity to non-target animals such as mammals are concerning. Although cypermethrin reduces testosterone levels, the molecular mechanisms involved, particularly those regarding endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and autophagy regulation, have not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, we demonstrated testicular toxicity of cypermethrin in mouse Leydig (TM3) and Sertoli (TM4) cells. Cypermethrin suppresses TM3 and TM4 cell proliferation and induces apoptosis. Moreover, it interrupted calcium homeostasis in intracellular organelles and dissipated mitochondrial membrane polarization in mouse testicular cells. Moreover, we verified the accumulation of Sqstm1/p62 protein in the mitochondria of cypermethrin-treated TM3 and TM4 cells. Furthermore, we confirmed that cypermethrin activated autophagy and the ER stress pathway in a time-dependent manner in both cell types. Finally, we determined that cypermethrin downregulated testicular function-related genes, steroidogenesis, and spermatogenesis in mouse testis cells. Therefore, we conclude that cypermethrin regulates autophagy and ER stress, leading to testicular dysfunction.

Adult Organophosphate and Carbamate Insecticide Exposure and Sperm Concentration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Epidemiological Evidence

BACKGROUND

Evidence of the negative impacts of contemporary use insecticides on sperm concentration has increased over the last few decades; however, meta-analyses on this topic are rare.

OBJECTIVES

This investigation assessed the qualitative and quantitative strength of epidemiological evidence regarding adult exposure to two classes of contemporary use insecticides-organophosphates (OPs) and N -methyl carbamates (NMCs)-and sperm concentration using robust and reproducible systematic review and meta-analysis methods.

METHODS

Three scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science), two U.S. government databases (NIOSHTIC-2 and Science.gov), and five nongovernmental organization websites were searched for relevant primary epidemiological studies published in any language through 11 August 2022. Risk of bias and strength of evidence were evaluated according to Navigation Guide systematic review methodology. Bias-adjusted standardized mean difference effect sizes were calculated and pooled using a three-level, multivariate random-effect meta-analysis model with cluster-robust variance estimation.

RESULTS

Across 20 studies, 21 study populations, 42 effect sizes, and 1,774 adult men, the pooled bias-adjusted standardized mean difference in sperm concentration between adult men more- and less-exposed to OP and NMC insecticides was - 0.30 (95% CI: - 0.49 , - 0.10 ; P Satt < 0.01 ). Sensitivity and subgroup analyses explored statistical heterogeneity and validated the model robustness. Although the pooled effect estimate was modified by risk of bias, insecticide class, exposure setting, and recruitment setting, it remained negative in direction across all meta-analyses. The body of evidence was rated to be of moderate quality, with sufficient evidence of an association between higher adult OP and NMC insecticide exposure and lower sperm concentration.

DISCUSSION

This comprehensive investigation found sufficient evidence of an association between higher OP and NMC insecticide exposure and lower sperm concentration in adults. Although additional cohort studies can be beneficial to fill data gaps, the strength of evidence warrants reducing exposure to OP and NMC insecticides now to prevent continued male reproductive harm. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP12678.

Deteriorating Semen Quality: The Role of the Environment

Since the end of the last century, several reports have suggested that semen quality is declining, especially in Western countries. Furthermore, cross-sectional studies using similar protocols have suggested regional differences in semen quality of young and fertile men. Reasons for these regional differences and local adverse trends in semen quality are unknown, but environmental factors are suspected to have a role. Besides adulthood environmental exposures, those occurring during testicular development may also affect semen quality. Longitudinal follow-up studies and mixture risk analyses are needed to study the effect of fetal, childhood, and adult life environment on semen quality.

Carvacrol showed a curative effect on reproductive toxicity caused by Bisphenol AF via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties

Bisphenol AF (BPAF) is an endocrine disruptor, and human exposure to these chemicals is growing in industrialized nations. BPAF has been demonstrated in studies to have toxic effects on reproductive health. This study examined the effects of oral exposure to BPAF on the reproductive system and the protective effects of carvacrol in rats. From 32 Wistar albino rats, four separate groups were set up for this purpose. Carvacrol 75 mg/kg and BPAF 200 mg/kg were administered by oral gavage method. Rat sperm parameters and serum testosterone levels were measured after 28 days of administration. The study looked at the MDA in the testis tissues, as well as CAT, GPx, and GSH as antioxidants parameters, NF-κB and TNF-α as inflammatory markers, caspase-3 and Bcl-2 as apoptosis parameters, and PCNA as cell proliferation markers. In addition, testis tissues underwent histological evaluation. As a result, in rats exposed to only BPAF, sperm counts declined, testosterone levels reduced, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis increased, and cell proliferation decreased. Furthermore, severe disruptions in tissue architecture and decreased spermatogenesis were reported. In contrast, sperm parameters improved, testosterone levels increased, oxidative stress and inflammation decreased, and apoptosis was prevented in the carvacrol-treated group compared to the BPAF-only group. It was also found that spermatogenesis was maintained, and structural abnormalities in testicular tissue were mostly avoided with an increase in PCNA expression. According to the findings, despite BPAF-induced testicular and reproductive toxicity, carvacrol had therapeutic potential due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cell proliferation-increasing, and anti-apoptotic activities.

Toxic Kidney Damage in Rats Following Subchronic Intraperitoneal Exposure to Element Oxide Nanoparticles

Chronic diseases of the urogenital tract, such as bladder cancer, prostate cancer, reproductive disorders, and nephropathies, can develop under the effects of chemical hazards in the working environment. In this respect, nanosized particles generated as by-products in many industrial processes seem to be particularly dangerous to organs such as the testes and the kidneys. Nephrotoxicity of element oxide particles has been studied in animal experiments with repeated intraperitoneal injections of Al2O3, TiO2, SiO2, PbO, CdO, CuO, and SeO nanoparticles (NPs) in total doses ranging from 4.5 to 45 mg/kg body weight of rats. NPs were synthesized by laser ablation. After cessation of exposure, we measured kidney weight and analyzed selected biochemical parameters in blood and urine, characterizing the state of the excretory system. We also examined histological sections of kidneys and estimated proportions of different cells in imprint smears of this organ. All element oxide NPs under investigation demonstrated a nephrotoxic effect following subchronic exposure. Following the exposure to SeO and SiO2 NPs, we observed a decrease in serum creatinine and urea, respectively. Exposure to Al2O3 NPs caused an increase in urinary creatinine and urea, while changes in total protein were controversial, as it increased under the effect of Al2O3 NPs and was reduced after exposure to CuO NPs. Histomorphological changes in kidneys are associated with desquamation of the epithelium (following the exposure to all NPs except those of Al2O3 and SiO2) and loss of the brush border (following the exposure to all NPs, except those of Al2O3, TiO2, and SiO2). The cytomorphological evaluation showed greater destruction of proximal sections of renal tubules. Compared to the controls, we observed statistically significant alterations in 42.1% (8 of 19) of parameters following the exposure to PbO, CuO, and SeO NPs in 21.1% (4 of 19)-following that, to CdO and Al2O3 NPs-and in 15.8% (3 of 19) and 10.5% (2 of 19) of indicators, following the exposure to TiO2 and SiO2 nanoparticles, respectively. Histomorphological changes in kidneys are associated with desquamation of epithelium and loss of the brush border. The cytomorphological evaluation showed greater destruction of proximal sections of renal tubules. The severity of cyto- and histological structural changes in kidneys depends on the chemical nature of NPs. These alterations are not always consistent with biochemical ones, thus impeding early clinical diagnosis of renal damage. Unambiguous ranking of the NPs examined by the degree of their nephrotoxicity is difficult. Additional studies are necessary to establish key indicators of the nephrotoxic effect, which can facilitate early diagnosis of occupational and nonoccupational nephropathies.

Male infertility

Clinical infertility is the inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months of trying. Male factors are estimated to contribute to 30-50% of cases of infertility. Infertility or reduced fertility can result from testicular dysfunction, endocrinopathies, lifestyle factors (such as tobacco and obesity), congenital anatomical factors, gonadotoxic exposures and ageing, among others. The evaluation of male infertility includes detailed history taking, focused physical examination and selective laboratory testing, including semen analysis. Treatments include lifestyle optimization, empirical or targeted medical therapy as well as surgical therapies that lead to measurable improvement in fertility. Although male infertility is recognized as a disease with effects on quality of life for both members of the infertile couple, fewer data exist on specific quantification and impact compared with other health-related conditions.

Acute exposure to organophosphorus pesticide metabolites compromises buffalo sperm function and impairs fertility

Agrichemicals such as organophosphorus pesticides' metabolites (OPPMs) are more hazardous and pervasive than their parent pesticides. Parental germline exposure to such xenobiotics leads to an elevated susceptibility towards reproductive failures e.g. sub- or in-fertility. This study sought to examine the effects of low-dose, acute OPPM exposure on mammalian sperm function using buffalo as the model organism. The buffalo spermatozoa were briefly (2 h) exposed to metabolites of the three most prevalent organophosphorus pesticides (OPPs) viz. Omethoate (from Dimethoate), paraoxon-methyl (from methyl/ethyl parathion) and 3, 5, 6-trichloro-2-pyridinol (from chlorpyrifos). Exposure to OPPMs resulted in compromised structural and functional integrity (dose-dependent) of the buffalo spermatozoa typified by elevated membrane damage, increased lipid peroxidation, precocious capacitation and tyrosine phosphorylation, perturbed mitochondrial activity and function and (P < 0.05). This led to a decline in the in vitro fertilizing ability (P < 0.01) of the exposed spermatozoa, as indicated by reduced cleavage and blastocyst formation rates. Preliminary data indicate that acute exposure to OPPMs, akin to their parent pesticides, induces biomolecular and physiological changes in spermatozoa that compromise their health and function ultimately affecting their fertility. This is the first study demonstrating the in vitro spermatotoxic effects of multiple OPPMs on male gamete functional integrity.

Effect of pesticide exposure on human sperm characteristics, genome integrity, and methylation profile analysis

According to the United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization, the quantities of pesticide used around the world have increased regularly since the 1990s. Given that pesticides may be classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, neurotoxic, or toxic for reproduction, some have endocrine-disrupting properties that might be associated with a decline in sperm parameters in general and sperm DNA integrity in particular. These days, a sperm analysis is not enough to determine the etiology of male infertility. Genome integrity analysis is a key step in clarifying a large proportion of cases of male infertility. The objective of the present retrospective study was to assess the impact of self-reported pesticide exposure on sperm parameters and sperm DNA integrity in men consulting for infertility. In a retrospective study, a population of 671 men living in the Picardy region of France were assessed in a conventional sperm parameter analysis, Shorr staining, a DNA fragmentation assay (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUDP nick-end labelling), and chromatin decondensation with aniline blue staining. The exposed and the non-exposed groups did not differ significantly in some of the conventional sperm parameters (including volume, sperm count, and percent typical forms). However, vitality, progressive motility, and non-progressive motility were significantly lower in the exposed group. Levels of DNA fragmentation and chromatin decondensation were moderately higher in the exposed group.

Male Germ Cell Telomeres and Chemical Pollutants

In recent decades, male infertility has been correlated with the shortening of sperm telomeres. Telomeres regulate the reproductive lifespan by mediating the synapsis and homologous recombination of chromosomes during gametogenesis. They are composed of thousands of hexanucleotide DNA repeats (TTAGGG) that are coupled to specialized shelterin complex proteins and non-coding RNAs. Telomerase activity in male germ cells ensures that the telomere length is maintained at maximum levels during spermatogenesis, despite telomere shortening due to DNA replication or other genotoxic factors such as environmental pollutants. An emerging body of evidence has associated an exposure to pollutants with male infertility. Although telomeric DNA may be one of the important targets of environmental pollutants, only a few authors have considered it as a conventional parameter for sperm function. The aim of this review is to provide comprehensive and up-to-date data on the research carried out so far on the structure/function of telomeres in spermatogenesis and the influence of environmental pollutants on their functionality. The link between pollutant-induced oxidative stress and telomere length in germ cells is discussed.

Occupational factors and markers of testicular function among men attending a fertility center

STUDY QUESTION

Are occupational factors associated with markers of testicular function among men attending a fertility center?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Men working non-daytime/rotating shifts and those with physically demanding jobs have higher sperm concentration and total sperm count as well as higher estradiol and total testosterone concentrations.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Semen quality has declined during recent decades and has been negatively correlated with higher risks of common chronic diseases and mortality, highlighting its public health importance beyond fertility and reproduction. While most of the previous epidemiology literature on male fertility has focused on environmental exposures, dietary factors, and other related variables, little attention has been paid to occupational factors.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

This observational study included 377 men who were male partners in couples seeking infertility treatment at a fertility center, who enrolled in the Environment and Reproductive Health (EARTH) study between 2005 and 2019.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Self-reported information on lifting/moving heavy objects, typical shift, and physical level of exertion at work was collected from a take-home questionnaire. Semen samples were analyzed following World Health Organization guidelines. Enzyme immunoassays were used to assess reproductive hormone concentrations. Linear regression models were used to evaluate the association between occupational factors and measures of testicular function, while adjusting for covariates such as age, BMI, education, race, smoking, and abstinence time, and accounting for multiple semen samples (mean = 2, min-max = 1-9) in analyses for semen parameters.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Men had a median (interquartile range) age of 36 (33, 39) years and were predominantly Caucasian (87%). Of the men who completed the survey, 12% reported often lifting or moving heavy objects at work, 6% reported heavy physical exertion at work, and 9% reported evening or rotating shifts. Men who reported often lifting or moving heavy objects at work had 46% higher sperm concentrations (P = 0.01) and 44% higher total counts (P = 0.01) compared with men who reported never lifting or moving heavy objects at work. Similar results were found for men working in rotating shifts compared to those in day shifts, as well as for men involved in heavy levels of physical exertion compared to those with light levels at work. We also found that men involved in heavy/moderate levels of physical exertion at work had higher circulating testosterone concentrations compared to those with lighter exertion (adjusted means of 515 and 427 ng/dl, respectively, P = 0.08), and men who often moved/lifted heavy objects at work had higher estradiol concentrations, compared to those who never did (adjusted means of 36.8 and 27.1 pg/ml, respectively, P = 0.07). Men working evening/rotating shifts had 24% higher testosterone (P = 0.04) and 45% higher estradiol concentrations (P = 0.01), compared to men working day shifts. No associations were observed for ejaculated volume, total motility, morphologically normal sperm, or serum FSH and LH concentrations.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Due to our study design which recruited men from couples seeking fertility treatment, it may not be possible to generalize our findings to men from the general population. Also, as is the case of all studies based on self-reported questionnaires, measurement error and misclassification of the exposure are potential concerns.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Physically demanding jobs and rotating or evening shift occupations may be associated with higher testicular function in men measured as higher sperm concentrations and counts as well as higher serum testosterone and estradiol levels. Confirmation of these findings in other non-fertility clinic study populations is warranted.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

NIH grants R01ES022955, R01ES009718, R01ES033651, and R01ES000002 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and Legacy, Inc. R.A.G. works part time for Legacy, Inc., which provided funds to perform this analysis. There are no other conflicts of interest.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A.

Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) and Male Reproductive Health: Challenging the Future with a Double-Edged Sword

Approximately 9% of couples are infertile, with half of these cases relating to male factors. While many cases of male infertility are associated with genetic and lifestyle factors, approximately 30% of cases are still idiopathic. Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) denote substances identified in the environment for the first time or detected at low concentrations during water quality analysis. Since CEC production and use have increased in recent decades, CECs are now ubiquitous in surface and groundwater. CECs are increasingly observed in human tissues, and parallel reports indicate that semen quality is continuously declining, supporting the notion that CECs may play a role in infertility. This narrative review focuses on several CECs (including pesticides and pharmaceuticals) detected in the nearshore marine environment of False Bay, Cape Town, South Africa, and deliberates their potential effects on male fertility and the offspring of exposed parents, as well as the use of spermatozoa in toxicological studies. Collective findings report that chronic in vivo exposure to pesticides, including atrazine, simazine, and chlorpyrifos, is likely to be detrimental to the reproduction of many organisms, as well as to sperm performance in vitro. Similarly, exposure to pharmaceuticals such as diclofenac and naproxen impairs sperm motility both in vivo and in vitro. These contaminants are also likely to play a key role in health and disease in offspring sired by parents exposed to CECs. On the other side of the double-edged sword, we propose that due to its sensitivity to environmental conditions, spermatozoa could be used as a bioindicator in eco- and repro-toxicology studies.

Challenges in the Analytical Preparation of a Biological Matrix in Analyses of Endocrine-Disrupting Bisphenols

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are xenobiotics presented in a variety of everyday products that may disrupt the normal activity of hormones. Exposure to bisphenol A as EDC at trace and ultra-trace levels is associated with adverse health effects, and children are recognized as the most vulnerable group to EDCs exposure. In this review, a summary is presented of up-to-date sample preparation methods and instrumental techniques applied for the detection and quantification of bisphenol A and its structural analogues in various biological matrices. Biological matrices such as blood, cell-free blood products, urine, saliva, breast milk, cordial blood, amniotic and semen fluids, as well as sweat and hair, are very complex; therefore, the detection and later quantification of bisphenols at low levels present a real analytical challenge. The most popular analytical approaches include gas and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, and their enhanced reliability and sensitivity finally allow the separation and detection of bisphenols in biological samples, even as ultra-traces. Liquid/liquid extraction (LLE) and solid-phase extraction (SPE) are still the most common methods for their extraction from biological matrices. However, many modern and environmentally safe microextraction techniques are currently under development. The complexity of biological matrices and low concentrations of analytes are the main issues for the limited identification, as well as understanding the adverse health effects caused by chronical and ubiquitous exposure to bisphenols and its analogues.

Androgen receptor signaling and pyrethroids: Potential male infertility consequences

Infertility is a global health concern inflicting a considerable burden on the global economy and a severe socio-psychological impact. Approximately 15% of couples suffer from infertility globally, with a male factor contribution of approximately 50%. However, male infertility remains largely unexplored, as the burden of infertility is mostly assigned to female people. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) have been proposed as one of the factors causing male infertility. Pyrethroids represent an important class of EDCs, and numerous studies have associated pyrethroid exposure with impaired male reproductive function and development. Therefore, the present study investigated the potentially toxic effects of two common pyrethroids, cypermethrin and deltamethrin, on androgen receptor (AR) signaling. The structural binding characterization of cypermethrin and deltamethrin against the AR ligand-binding pocket was performed using Schrodinger's induced fit docking (IFD) approach. Various parameters were estimated, such as binding interactions, binding energy, docking score, and IFD score. Furthermore, the AR native ligand, testosterone, was subjected to similar experiments against the AR ligand-binding pocket. The results revealed commonality in the amino acid-binding interactions and overlap in other structural parameters between the AR native ligand, testosterone, and the ligands, cypermethrin and deltamethrin. The estimated binding energy values of cypermethrin and deltamethrin were very high and close to those calculated for AR native ligand, testosterone. Taken together, the results of this study suggested potential disruption of AR signaling by cypermethrin and deltamethrin, which may result in androgen dysfunction and subsequent male infertility.

Characterization in Potent Modulation on Voltage-Gated Na+ Current Exerted by Deltamethrin, a Pyrethroid Insecticide

Deltamethrin (DLT) is a type-II pyrethroid ester insecticide used in agricultural and domestic applications as well as in public health. However, transmembrane ionic channels perturbed by this compound remain largely unclear, although the agent is thought to alter the gating characteristics of voltage-gated Na⁺ (Na_V) channel current. In this study, we reappraised whether and how it and other related compounds can make any further modifications on voltage-gated Na⁺ current (I_Na) in pituitary tumor (GH₃) cells. Cell exposure to DLT produced a differential and dose-dependent stimulation of peak (transient, I_Na(T)) or sustained (late, I_Na(L)) I_Na; consequently, the EC₅₀ value required for DLT-stimulated I_Na(T) or I_Na(L) was determined to be 11.2 or 2.5 μM, respectively. However, neither the fast nor slow component in the inactivation time constant of I_Na(T) activated by short depolarizing pulse was changed with the DLT presence; conversely, tefluthrin (Tef), a type-I pyrethroid insecticide, can accentuate I_Na with a slowing in inactivation time course of the current. The I_Na(L) augmented by DLT was attenuated by further application of either dapagliflozin (Dapa) or amiloride, but not by chlorotoxin. During pulse train (PT) stimulation, with the Tef or DLT presence, the cumulative inhibition of I_Na(T) became slowed; moreover, following PT stimuli, a large tail current with a slowly recovering process was observed. Alternatively, during rapid depolarizing pulse, the amplitude of I_Na(L) and tail I_Na (I_Na(Tail)) for each depolarizing pulse became progressively increased by adding DLT, not by Tef. The recovery time constant following PT stimulation with continued presence of Tef or DLT was shortened by further addition of Dapa. The voltage-dependent hysteresis (Hys_(V)) of persistent I_Na was differentially augmented by Tef or DLT. Taken together, the magnitude, gating, frequency dependence, as well as Hys_(V) behavior of I_Na exerted by the presence of DLT or Tef might exert a synergistic impact on varying functional activities of excitable cells in culture or in vivo.

Review: Presence, distribution and current pesticides used in Spanish agricultural practices

To guarantee an adequate food supply for the world's growing population, intensive agriculture is necessary to ensure efficient food production. The use of pesticides helps maintain maximum productivity in intensive agriculture by minimizing crop losses due to pests. However, pesticide contamination of surface waters constitutes a major problem as they are resistant to degradation and soluble enough to be transported in water. In recent years, all groups of pesticides defined by the World Health Organization have increased their use and, therefore, their prevalence in the different environmental compartments that can have harmful effects. Despite this effort, there is no rigorous monitoring program that quantifies and controls the toxic effects of each pesticide. However, multiple scientific studies have been published by specialized research groups in which this information is disseminated. Therefore, any attempt to systematize this information is relevant. This review offers a current overview of the presence and distribution of the most widely-used pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides) by crop type and an evaluation of the relationships between their uses and environmental implications in Spain. The data demonstrated that there are correlations between the presence of specific pesticides used in the main crops and their presence in the environmental compartments. We have found preliminary data pointing to existing associations between specific pesticides used in the main crops and their presence in environmental compartments within different geographical areas of Spain; this should be the subject of further investigation.

A Tiered Approach for Assessing Individual and Combined Risk of Pyrethroids Using Human Biomonitoring Data

Pyrethroids are a major insecticide class, suitable for biomonitoring in humans. Due to similarities in structure and metabolic pathways, urinary metabolites are common to various active substances. A tiered approach is proposed for risk assessment. Tier I was a conservative screening for overall pyrethroid exposure, based on phenoxybenzoic acid metabolites. Subsequently, probabilistic approaches and more specific metabolites were used for refining the risk estimates. Exposure was based on 95th percentiles from HBM4EU aligned studies (2014-2021) covering children in Belgium, Cyprus, France, Israel, Slovenia, and The Netherlands and adults in France, Germany, Israel, and Switzerland. In all children populations, the 95th percentiles for 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA) exceeded the screening value. The probabilistic refinement quantified the risk level of the most exposed population (Belgium) at 2% or between 1-0.1% depending on the assumptions. In the substance specific assessments, the 95th percentiles of urinary concentrations in the aligned studies were well below the respective human biomonitoring guidance values (HBM-GVs). Both information sets were combined for refining the combined risk. Overall, the HBM data suggest a low health concern, at population level, related to pyrethroid exposure for the populations covered by the studies, even though a potential risk for highly exposed children cannot be completely excluded. The proposed tiered approach, including a screening step and several refinement options, seems to be a promising tool of scientific and regulatory value in future.

Snails as Temporal Biomonitors of the Occurrence and Distribution of Pesticides in an Apple Orchard

The intensive use of pesticides in agricultural areas and the resulting effects have created a need to develop monitoring programs for their active assessment at low cost. This research entails a biomonitoring study of the pesticides in an apple orchard, using juvenile Cornu aspersum (O. F. Müller, 1774) snails exposed in field microcosms. The snails were deployed at three different locations in the orchard area and were used to assess the temporal biomonitoring of 100 different semi-volatile and non-volatile pesticides. The study was performed over an 18-week period and targeted the center, the border, and the outside of the orchard. Results showed that greater levels of pesticides were detected at the center of the orchard as compared to the other sites. The type and level of the applied pesticide influenced its environmental dissipation, as significantly greater levels of semi-volatile pesticides were accumulated by the caged snails in comparison to non-volatile pesticides. The presence of semi-volatile pesticides in the snails outside the orchard revealed the usefulness of these species in the biomonitoring of off-site pesticide emissions. The findings of this study showed that C. aspersum can serve as a reliable and effective model organism for the active biomonitoring of pesticide emissions in agricultural sites.

Subfertile patients underestimate their risk factors of reprotoxic exposure

Background

Exposure of men and women to environmental reprotoxic agents is associated with impaired fertility and pregnancy rates after assisted reproductive treatment (ART). Nevertheless, such exposures are generally not systematically assessed in current practice before ART and subfertile men are generally less explored than women. Our objective was to study subfertile men and women’s level of knowledge about reprotoxic agents, their perception of their own risk factors and the correlation between perceived and identified circumstances of exposure.

Results

In our public university hospital, 390 subfertile patients (185 men and 185 women) requiring assisted reproduction technique (ART) treatment, completed a self-report questionnaire before consultation, in order to assess patients’ knowledge of reprotoxic exposures, sources of information about them and perception of their own circumstances of exposure. Then a standardized questionnaire was used by the physician during the consultation to estimate domestic, environmental and occupational risk factors of reprotoxic exposures (RFRE). We compared the patients’ perception of exposure with the estimated RFRE.

The reprotoxic agents knowledge score of patients was 61%. Their main sources of information were the media (40%), the internet (22%) and gynecologists (15%). The standardized questionnaire identified RFRE in 265/390 patients (68%); risk factor was statistically more frequent in men (77%) than in women (59%) (p < 0.05). In total, 141 of the 265 patients with identified RFRE (53%) were aware of their risk factor of reprotoxic exposure.

Conclusion

We identified risk factors of reprotoxic exposures in the majority of subfertile patients, more frequently in men than in women, and half of patients were not aware of their exposures. Patients’ main sources of information were extra medical. Efforts should be made to inform patients, especially men, about potential reprotoxic exposure and to enhance medical training about reprotoxic agents, as recommended by international guidelines. The detection and correction of environmental exposures in subfertile men could improve their fecundity, but also their general health, which has been shown to be poorer than health of fertile men.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12610-022-00161-z.

Recent Advances in the Recognition Elements of Sensors to Detect Pyrethroids in Food: A Review

The presence of pyrethroids in food and the environment due to their excessive use and extensive application in the agriculture industry represents a significant threat to public health. Therefore, the determination of the presence of pyrethroids in foods by simple, rapid, and sensitive methods is warranted. Herein, recognition methods for pyrethroids based on electrochemical and optical biosensors from the last five years are reviewed, including surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), chemiluminescence, biochemical, fluorescence, and colorimetric methods. In addition, recognition elements used for pyrethroid detection, including enzymes, antigens/antibodies, aptamers, and molecular-imprinted polymers, are classified and discussed based on the bioreceptor types. The current research status, the advantages and disadvantages of existing methods, and future development trends are discussed. The research progress of rapid pyrethroid detection in our laboratory is also presented.