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Environmental and occupational exposures associated with male infertility. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 72:101-113. [PMID: 34187108 PMCID: PMC8265198 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2021-72-3510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The upsurge in male infertility over the last two decades, possibly due to environmental exposure, has raised significant interest, particularly boosted by reports from fertility clinics, which showed that chronic diseases and hereditary or other medical conditions might only partially explain current incidence of male infertility. Both environmental and occupational settings may have a significant role in exposure to complex mixtures of endocrine disruptors (ED), which play a major role in fertility disorders. The aim of this review is to give an insight into the current knowledge on exposure settings which may be associated with male infertility. Our study relied on a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for articles published between January 2000 and September 2020. It showed that some well documented factors associated with male infertility include smoking, and physiological disturbances or chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, which in turn, may also reflect lifestyle choices and environmental exposures, especially to EDs such as phthalates, bisphenols, pesticides, and flame retardants. However, the number of studies on the aetiology of male infertility is still too low in comparison with the size of affected population. Occupational health follow-ups and medical surveillance do not collect any data on male infertility, even though ED chemicals are part of many technological processes.
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Park HJ, Zhang M, Lee WY, Hong KH, Do JT, Park C, Song H. Toxic Effects of Nonylphenol on Neonatal Testicular Development in Mouse Organ Culture. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E3491. [PMID: 32429066 PMCID: PMC7279013 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonylphenol (NP) is an alkylphenol that is widely used in chemical manufacturing. Exposure to this toxic environmental contaminant has been shown to negatively affect the reproductive system. Herein, we evaluated the toxicity of NP in mouse testes, while using in vitro organ culture. Mouse testicular fragments (MTFs), derived from five-day postpartum neonatal mouse testes, were exposed to different concentrations of NP (1-50 μM) for 30 days. The results showed that NP impaired germ cell development and maintenance. Furthermore, NP significantly downregulated the transcript levels of both undifferentiated and differentiated germ cell marker genes relative to those in controls. In particular, a high dose of NP (50 µM) led to complete germ cell depletion and resulted in spermatogenic failure, despite the presence of Sertoli and Leydig cells. In addition, the mRNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes, such as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR), Cytochrome P450 Family 11 Subfamily A Member 1 (Cyp11α1), Cytochrome P450 17A1 (Cyp17α1), and androgen receptor (AR), increased with increasing concentration of NP. Conversely, the expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1) and Cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (Cyp19α1) in NP-exposed MTFs decreased when compared to that of the control. Taken together, this study demonstrates that NP has a negative effect on prepubertal spermatogenesis and germ cell maintenance and it disrupts steroidogenesis and induces hormonal imbalance in MTFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Jung Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea; (H.-J.P.); (M.Z.); (K.-H.H.); (J.T.D.); (C.P.)
| | - Mingtian Zhang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea; (H.-J.P.); (M.Z.); (K.-H.H.); (J.T.D.); (C.P.)
| | - Won-Young Lee
- Department of Beef Science, Korea National College of Agricultures and Fisheries, Jeonju-si, Jeonbuk 54874, Korea;
| | - Kwon-Ho Hong
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea; (H.-J.P.); (M.Z.); (K.-H.H.); (J.T.D.); (C.P.)
| | - Jeong Tae Do
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea; (H.-J.P.); (M.Z.); (K.-H.H.); (J.T.D.); (C.P.)
| | - Chankyu Park
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea; (H.-J.P.); (M.Z.); (K.-H.H.); (J.T.D.); (C.P.)
| | - Hyuk Song
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Konkuk University, 1 Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Korea; (H.-J.P.); (M.Z.); (K.-H.H.); (J.T.D.); (C.P.)
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Meta-Analysis Reveals the Association Between Male Occupational Exposure to Solvents and Impairment of Semen Parameters. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 60:e533-e542. [PMID: 30095585 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Solvent exposure is among the most common occupational exposures to chemical toxicants; data about the impact of such exposure on semen parameters are contradictory. We conducted the first meta-analysis to evaluate the risk of alteration in semen parameters related to occupational exposure to solvents. METHODS From the PubMed database, we selected studies analyzing the semen of subjects occupationally exposed to solvents, compared with unexposed controls. The meta-analysis was performed on the various semen parameters analyzed in both populations. RESULTS Seven studies were included in the study. The meta-analysis revealed a significant decrease in ejaculate volume [standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.35 (-0.63 to -0.07)] and sperm concentration [SMD = -0.36 (-0.64 to -0.08)] in workers exposed to solvents compared with unexposed controls. CONCLUSION Our results highlight the importance of preventing reprotoxic risks to male fertility in the workplace.
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Wesselink AK, Hatch EE, Wise LA, Rothman KJ, Vieira VM, Aschengrau A. Exposure to tetrachloroethylene-contaminated drinking water and time to pregnancy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 167:136-143. [PMID: 30014895 PMCID: PMC6399737 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The synthetic solvent tetrachloroethylene (PCE), commonly used in dry cleaning operations, is a human neurotoxicant and carcinogen. However, its effect on reproduction is poorly understood, as prior studies have been limited to small occupational cohorts. We examined the association between PCE exposure from contamination of the public drinking water supply and time-to-pregnancy (TTP) in a cohort of mothers from Cape Cod, Massachusetts. METHODS The Cape Cod Family Health Study is a retrospective cohort study designed to examine the reproductive and developmental health effects of exposure to PCE-contaminated drinking water. Our analysis included 1565 women who reported 3826 planned pregnancies from 1949 to 1990. Women completed self-administered questionnaires that ascertained TTP for each of her pregnancies, regardless of the outcome, as well as residential history and demographic information. We utilized EPANET water distribution system modeling software and a leaching and transport model to assess PCE exposure for each pregnancy. We used log-binomial regression models to estimate relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusting for potential confounders. We performed a probabilistic bias analysis to examine the effect of outcome misclassification on our results. RESULTS Any cumulative PCE exposure before pregnancy was associated with a 15% reduction in risk of TTP > 12 months (RR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.70, 1.03). However, women with the highest average monthly PCE exposure around the time of the pregnancy attempt (≥ 2.5 g) had increased risk of TTP > 12 months (RR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.76). CONCLUSIONS We found little evidence for long-term, cumulative adverse effects of PCE exposure on TTP, but high levels of PCE exposure around the time of the pregnancy attempt were associated with longer TTP. These associations may be underestimated due to the exclusion of unsuccessful pregnancy attempts from our study population, and may be biased by outcome and exposure misclassification given the long-term recall of TTP and use of a leaching and transport model to estimate PCE exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia K Wesselink
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA; RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Veronica M Vieira
- University of California, Irvine, Program in Public Health, Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Ann Aschengrau
- Boston University School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Boston, MA, USA
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Zhang Y, Ma T, Su Z, Ye M, Tian H, Li J, Liu J. Varicoceles affect semen quality of infertile men in Southern China: A cross-sectional study of 5447 cases. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017; 96:e7707. [PMID: 28767606 PMCID: PMC5626160 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000007707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The association of varicoceles with infertility is well established, but the exact effect of varicoceles on semen quality among patients with infertility is still poorly known. The study aimed to examine the prevalence of varicoceles among Chinese men with infertility and to examine the factors associated with semen quality.This was a cross-sectional study of 5447 male patients treated for infertility at the Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University from October 2012 to December 2015. The patients were divided on the basis of the presence of varicoceles. Examinations of the amount of semen and sperm morphology were performed according to seminal parameter detection methods recommended by the World Health Organization.Patients with varicoceles (n = 1429/5447, 26.2%) were slightly younger (P = .046), and had smaller testis (P = .019), higher frequency of abnormal epididymis (P < .001), slightly shorter infertility duration (P = .046), and lower frequency of smokers (P = .012). There was no difference in the distribution of occupations (P = .777). Using multiple linear regression analysis, varicoceles were shown to be independently associated with semen volume [B = -0.153, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): -0.245 to -0.062, P = .001], sperm concentration (B = 9.633, 95% CI: 7.152-12.114, P < .001), proportion of sperms with normal morphology (B = 0.951, 95% CI: 0.623-1.278, P < .001), motility (B = 3.835, 95% CI: 2.675, 4.995, P < .001), total sperm count (B = 22.481, 95% CI: 13.333-31.629, P < .001), and forward movement sperm count (B = 15.553, 95% CI: 9.777-21.329, P < .001). Varicoceles were present in 26% of Chinese male patients with infertility.Varicoceles were independently associated with sperm volume, sperm concentration, proportion of sperms with normal morphology, motility, total sperm count, and forward movement sperm count.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunshan Zhang
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University
| | - Tianzhong Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University
| | - Zexuan Su
- Department of Urology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou
| | - Mushi Ye
- Laboratory of Urology, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Huanshu Tian
- Laboratory of Urology, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jianchang Li
- Laboratory of Urology, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Laboratory of Urology, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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Jahan S, Falah S, Ullah H, Ullah A, Rauf N. Antioxidant enzymes status and reproductive health of adult male workers exposed to brick kiln pollutants in Pakistan. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:12932-12940. [PMID: 26996903 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6454-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The present study was designed to study the effect of brick kilns emissions on the reproductive health and biochemical status of brick kiln workers and people living in the area near brick kilns. Body mass index (BMI) was significantly reduced in brick makers, carriers, and bakers compared to the control. Red blood cells count and hematocrit (%) were significantly high in brick bakers while MCH was significantly reduced in brick makers and brick bakers. Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, and chromium) concentration in whole blood of the brick kiln workers were significantly higher as compared to the control. Antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, POD, GSH, and GR) were significantly reduced in brick kiln workers as compared to the control while TBARS level were significantly high in brick bakers as compared to the control. Plasma leutinizing hormone (LH) was significantly high in brick bakers while testosterone concentrations were significantly reduced in brick makers, carriers, and bakers. The present study shows that brick kiln workers and people living in the brick kiln vicinity are exposed to heavy metals and other pollutants that is a serious threat to their health. Alternate technology is needed to be developed and brick kilns should be replaced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarwat Jahan
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan.
| | - Samreen Falah
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Hizb Ullah
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Asad Ullah
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Naveed Rauf
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Animal Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Wang HX, Li HC, Lv MQ, Zhou DX, Bai LZ, Du LZ, Xue X, Lin P, Qiu SD. Associations between occupation exposure to Formaldehyde and semen quality, a primary study. Sci Rep 2015; 5:15874. [PMID: 26515386 PMCID: PMC4626826 DOI: 10.1038/srep15874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Formaldehyde (FA), a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, has long been suspected of having male reproductive toxicity. However, FA male reproductive toxicity was inconclusive due to dearth of human studies. Therefore, we sought to investigate whether occupational exposure to FA affects semen quality. Semen quality including five conventional parameters and seven kinematics parameters were compared between 114 male workers occupationally exposed to FA and 76 referents. FA exposure index (FEI) was measured and calculated. Our results showed that sperm progressive motility, total sperm motility, VCL, VSL and VAP were statistically significant decreased in FA exposure workers compared with the referents. Moreover, FEI was significantly negative associated with sperm progressive motility (β = -0.19, P = 0.01) and total sperm motility (β = -0.23, P = 0.004). In addition, a significant elevated risk of abnormal sperm progressive motility were observed in both low- (OR = 2.58; 95% CI: 1.11-5.97) and high-FA-exposed group (OR = 3.41; 95% CI: 1.45-7.92) respectively. Furthermore, a significant increased risk was also estimated for abnormal total sperm motility in both low- (OR = 3.21; 95% CI: 1.24-8.28) and high-FA-exposed group (OR = 4.84; 95% CI: 1.83-12.81) respectively. In conclusion, our study revealed the adverse effects of FA occupation exposure on semen quality, especially on sperm motion parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-xu Wang
- Department of Pathology, School of basic medical sciences, Health science center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xijing Hospital of the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - He-cheng Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Department of Urinary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710004, China
| | - Mo-qi Lv
- Department of Pathology, School of basic medical sciences, Health science center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Dang-xia Zhou
- Department of Pathology, School of basic medical sciences, Health science center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Li-zhi Bai
- Department of Pathology, School of basic medical sciences, Health science center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Liang-zhi Du
- Department of Pathology, School of basic medical sciences, Health science center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.,Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education, Xi'an, 710061, China
| | - Xia Xue
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Maternal and child care Hospital of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an, 710003, China
| | - Pu Lin
- Electric Power Science Research Institute of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an, 710054, China
| | - Shu-dong Qiu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China
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Ould Hamouda S, Perrin J, Achard V, Courbière B, Grillo JM, Sari-Minodier I. [Association between sperm abnormalities and occupational environment among male consulting for couple infertility]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 45:1-10. [PMID: 26387599 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgyn.2015.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Revised: 08/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Alteration of sperm parameters related to occupational exposures is the subject of several studies, often on a case-control approach. The study populations usually comprise men consulting in infertility clinics for couple infertility. The objective of this review is to identify, from these case-control studies, the main occupational factors that may be associated with altered sperm parameters. We selected 13 articles in the PubMed database. Participation in these studies varied from 61 to 2619 subjects, with great methodological heterogeneity, particularly in the characterization of exposure. The main occupations that appear significantly associated with a risk of altered sperm parameters are workmen, painters, farmers, welders, plumbers and technicians. When analysis focuses on occupational exposures, a significant result is reported for solvents, heavy metals, heat, vibrations and non-ionizing radiation. None of the selected studies has found a link with exposure to pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ould Hamouda
- Service de médecine et santé au travail, pôle de santé publique, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Timone, 13005 Marseille, France; CECOS-laboratoire de biologie de la reproduction, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - J Perrin
- CECOS-laboratoire de biologie de la reproduction, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France; Centre clinico-biologique d'assistance médicale à la procréation, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France; Institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie (IMBE UMR 7263), équipe biogénotoxicologie, santé humaine et environnement, faculté de médecine, Aix Marseille université, CNRS, IRD, université Avignon, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - V Achard
- CECOS-laboratoire de biologie de la reproduction, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France; Centre clinico-biologique d'assistance médicale à la procréation, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France; Institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie (IMBE UMR 7263), équipe biogénotoxicologie, santé humaine et environnement, faculté de médecine, Aix Marseille université, CNRS, IRD, université Avignon, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - B Courbière
- Centre clinico-biologique d'assistance médicale à la procréation, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France; Institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie (IMBE UMR 7263), équipe biogénotoxicologie, santé humaine et environnement, faculté de médecine, Aix Marseille université, CNRS, IRD, université Avignon, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - J-M Grillo
- CECOS-laboratoire de biologie de la reproduction, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France; Centre clinico-biologique d'assistance médicale à la procréation, pôle de gynécologie obstétrique et reproduction (Gynépôle), Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Conception, 13005 Marseille, France; Institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie (IMBE UMR 7263), équipe biogénotoxicologie, santé humaine et environnement, faculté de médecine, Aix Marseille université, CNRS, IRD, université Avignon, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France
| | - I Sari-Minodier
- Service de médecine et santé au travail, pôle de santé publique, Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille (AP-HM) la Timone, 13005 Marseille, France; Institut méditerranéen de biodiversité et d'écologie (IMBE UMR 7263), équipe biogénotoxicologie, santé humaine et environnement, faculté de médecine, Aix Marseille université, CNRS, IRD, université Avignon, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13385 Marseille cedex 5, France.
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Zahid N, Saleem S, Azam I, Moatter T. Association of Obesity with Infertility among Pakistani Men: A Case Control Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.4236/ojepi.2015.53025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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10
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El-Sayed Ali T, Abdel-Aziz SH, El-Sayed AFM, Zeid S. Structural and functional effects of early exposure to 4-nonylphenol on gonadal development of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): b-histological alterations in testes. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2014; 40:1495-507. [PMID: 24805085 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-014-9944-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 04/27/2014] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigates the effects of different doses (0, 40, 60, 100 μg/L) of 4-nonylphenol (NP) on testis histology and sperms motility of mature Oreochromis niloticus. A tendency for a dose-dependent reduction in the gonado-somatic index (GSI) in the NP-exposed groups was observed. Histological examination revealed that high doses of NP (60 and 100 μg/L) cause hyperplasia of interlobular connective tissue components coincide with decrease in the size of seminiferous lobules and amount of lumen spermatozoa in comparison with the control and low-dose (40 μg/L)-exposed groups. In addition, within the seminiferous lobules, rupture of spermatogenic cysts, vacuolation and necrosis of primary spermatocytes due to damage of sertoli cells were clearly observed and lead to decrease in advanced spermatogenic cells. The highest dose caused significant decrease in the GSI associated with appearance of testis-ova (intersex) state. The percentage of abnormal sperms increased with increasing the dose of NP reaching to 96 % for those subjected to 100 μg NP/L, while it was only 11 % for the control group specimens. The study indicates that NP has estrogenic potency induced marked alteration in the sexual development including inhibition in testicular growth and deformation in the sperms.
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Affiliation(s)
- T El-Sayed Ali
- Oceanography Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt,
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Cherry N, Povey AC, McNamee R, Moore H, Baillie H, Clyma JA, Dippnall M, Pacey AA. Occupation exposures and sperm morphology: a case-referent analysis of a multi-centre study. Occup Environ Med 2014; 71:598-604. [PMID: 24847137 DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2013-101996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined occupational exposures and sperm morphology to establish whether exposures implicated differed from those affecting motile sperm concentration. METHODS Computer aided sperm morphometric assessment was undertaken on morphology slides obtained as part of a multi-centre study in 1999-2002 of occupational factors in male infertility. Men attending 14 fertility clinics across the UK were recruited and gave a semen sample. Before results of the semen analysis were known, the men completed detailed questionnaires about their employment and lifestyle. Occupational exposures were assessed by occupational hygienists. Data were analysed using an unmatched case-referent design, allowing for clustering and for confounders. Three case definitions were used: poor morphology (normal morphology <4%), low motile sperm count (MSC) (<4.8×10(6)) and either condition. RESULTS Morphology results were available for 1861/2011 men employed at the time of recruitment. Of these 1861, 296 (15.9%) had poor morphology; of the 2011with sperm count, 453 (22.5%) had low MSC; 654/1981 (33.0%) had either condition. Poor morphology, adjusted for confounding, was related to self-reported lifetime exposure to lead (OR=1.33; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.75). Low MSC was also related to self-reported lead and to hygienist-assessed glycol ether exposure. Self-reported use of paint stripper (OR=1.47; 95% CI 1.07 to 2.03) and lead, but not glycol ether, were significantly related to the combined case definition. CONCLUSIONS While this study did not identify any occupational exposure uniquely related to sperm morphology, the capacity of the study to detect risk was increased by including morphology with sperm concentration and motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Cherry
- Division of Preventive Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andy C Povey
- School of Community-based Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Roseanne McNamee
- School of Community-based Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Harry Moore
- Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Helen Baillie
- Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Julie-Ann Clyma
- School of Community-based Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Martin Dippnall
- School of Community-based Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Allan A Pacey
- Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Celik A, Aydin N, Ozcirpici B, Saricicek E, Sezen H, Okumus M, Bozkurt S, Kilinc M. Elevated red blood cell distribution width and inflammation in printing workers. Med Sci Monit 2013; 19:1001-5. [PMID: 24231719 PMCID: PMC3843572 DOI: 10.12659/msm.889694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2013] [Accepted: 09/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to estimate the effects of exposure to chemical compounds on systemic biochemical inflammatory markers in printing industry workers. MATERIAL/METHODS Fifty-eight printing workers from 19 different small- and medium-sized enterprises in the printing sector were investigated. For comparison, 80 healthy workers not subjected to workplace chemicals served as control subjects. RESULTS No significant differences were observed between the printing workers and control subjects with respect to age, BMI, waist circumference/hip circumference ratio, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Printing workers had significantly higher serum TNF-alpha levels (11.02 ± 5.34 vs. 9.26 ± 3.87 pg/ml, p=0.039), plasma fibrinogen levels (1.74 ± 0.49 vs. 1.38 ± 0.5 mg/dl, p=0.012), and red blood cell distribution width (RDW-SD) (49.77 ± 3.09 vs. 47.3 ± 2.88 p<0.01) compared to control subjects. CONCLUSIONS Elevation of RDW, serum TNF-alpha, and plasma fibrinogen levels in printing workers may be due to systemic toxic effects of chemical compounds used in this sector. TNF-alpha is an inflammatory cytokine that has a wide spectrum of biological activities, and fibrinogen plays an important role in pathological processes. Some compounds may be carcinogenic or mutagenic. Better designed workplaces and working conditions will help to reduce the hazardous effects of chemical compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Celik
- Medical Faculty, Medical Biochemistry, Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Neriman Aydin
- Department of Public Health, Medical Faculty, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Birgul Ozcirpici
- Department of Public Health, Medical Faculty, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Edibe Saricicek
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Dr. Ersin Arslan State Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Hatice Sezen
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Harran University, Harran, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Okumus
- Department of Emergency, Sutcu Imam University, Medical Faculty, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Selim Bozkurt
- Department of Emergency, Sutcu Imam University, Medical Faculty, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Metin Kilinc
- Medical Faculty, Medical Biochemistry, Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
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Iszatt N, Nieuwenhuijsen MJ, Bennett J, Best N, Povey AC, Pacey AA, Moore H, Cherry N, Toledano MB. Chlorination by-products in tap water and semen quality in England and Wales. Occup Environ Med 2013; 70:754-60. [DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2012-101339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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de Vocht F, Cherry N, Wakefield J. A Bayesian mixture modeling approach for assessing the effects of correlated exposures in case-control studies. JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE & ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY 2012; 22:352-60. [PMID: 22588215 DOI: 10.1038/jes.2012.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Predisposition to a disease is usually caused by cumulative effects of a multitude of exposures and lifestyle factors in combination with individual susceptibility. Failure to include all relevant variables may result in biased risk estimates and decreased power, whereas inclusion of all variables may lead to computational difficulties, especially when variables are correlated. We describe a Bayesian Mixture Model (BMM) incorporating a variable-selection prior and compared its performance with logistic multiple regression model (LM) in simulated case-control data with up to twenty exposures with varying prevalences and correlations. In addition, as a practical example we re analyzed data on male infertility and occupational exposures (Chaps-UK). BMM mean-squared errors (MSE) were smaller than of the LM, and were independent of the number of model parameters. BMM type I errors were minimal (≤1), whereas for the LM this increased with the number of parameters and correlation between exposures. The numbers of type II errors were comparable. Re analysis of Chaps-UK data demonstrated more convincingly than by using a LM that occupational exposure to glycol ethers and VOCs are likely risk factors for male infertility. This BMM proves an appealing alternative to standard logistic regression when dealing with the analysis of (correlated) exposures in case-control studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank de Vocht
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Community Based Medicine, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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Povey AC, Clyma JA, McNamee R, Moore HD, Baillie H, Pacey AA, Cherry NM. Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for poor semen quality: a case-referent study. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2799-806. [PMID: 22695289 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are common lifestyle factors associated with low-motile sperm concentration (MSC)? SUMMARY ANSWER Common lifestyle choices make little contribution to the risk of low MSC. WHAT IS KNOWN AND WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Reviews of male subfertility often highlight how aspects of men's adult lifestyle can significantly increase their risk of subfertility but the strength of supporting evidence is weak. In this study, although low MSC was associated with a history of testicular surgery, being in manual work, not wearing loose underwear and black ethnicity, no relation was found to consumption of alcohol, use of tobacco or recreational drugs or high body mass index (BMI). These results suggest that delaying assisted conception to make changes to lifestyle is unlikely to enhance conception. DESIGN Unmatched case-referent study with 939 cases and 1310 referents. Cases had a low-MSC relative to the time since last ejaculation (<12 × 10(6) for 3 days of abstinence). Exposures included self-reported exposures to alcohol, tobacco, recreational drugs as well as occupational and other factors. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Eligible men, aged 18 or above, were part of a couple who had been attempting conception without success following at least 12 months of unprotected intercourse and also had no knowledge of any semen analysis. They were recruited from 14 fertility clinics across the UK during a 37-month period from 1 January 1999. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Risk factors for low MSC, after adjustment for centre and confounding factors, included a history of testicular surgery [odds ratio = 2.39, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.75, 3.28], being in manual work [odds ratio (OR) = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.53] or not working (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.22, 2.59) and having black ethnicity (OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.10, 3.63). Conversely, men who wore boxer shorts (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.64, 0.92) or who had a previous conception (OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.60, 0.85) were less likely to be a case. No significant association was found with smoking and alcohol consumption, the use of recreational drugs, a high BMI or having a history of mumps or fever. BIAS, CONFOUNDING AND OTHER REASONS FOR CAUTION Data were collected blind to outcome, and exposure information should not have been subject to reporting bias. Among men attending the various clinics less than half met the study eligibility criteria and among those who did, two out of five were not recruited. It is not known whether any of those who refused to take part did so because they had a lifestyle they did not want subjected to investigation. Although the power of the study was sufficient to draw conclusions about common lifestyle choices, it cannot comment on exposures that are perhaps rare and poorly reported: the finding that use of street drugs was unrelated to low MSC cannot be assumed to apply to all such drugs and all patterns of use. The case definition did not consider sperm morphology or sperm DNA integrity. GENERALIZABILITY TO OTHER POPULATIONS All participating clinics saw patients at no cost (under the UK National Health Service) and the study population may differ from those in countries without such provision. Even within the UK, low-income couples may choose not to undertake any investigation believing that they would subsequently be unable to afford treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Povey
- Centre for Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Community-Based Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
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Katukam V, Kulakarni M, Syed R, Alharbi K, Naik J. Effect of benzene exposure on fertility of male workers employed in bulk drug industries. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2012; 16:592-7. [PMID: 22304538 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2011.0241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES Industrial workers are constantly exposed to benzene, especially at the production unit. The present investigation explores any association of the outcome of various reproductive malfunctions in terms of infertility and other related factors as a result of benzene exposure. METHODOLOGY Blood and semen samples were collected from total 160 industrial workers exposed to benzene and 200 nonoccupationally exposed control subjects. We investigated macroscopic and microscopic semen parameters in the present study population. Body fluid benzene analysis was done by Head Space chromatography. The sperm DNA integrity was determined by modified alkaline single-cell gel electrophoresis or the comet assay method. RESULTS No significant changes were observed in macroscopic semen parameters. A duration-dependent decrement in total sperm count and the percentage of motility was observed among the benzene-exposed industrial workers (p<0.05). A duration-dependent increment of abnormal sperm morphology was observed among the benzene-exposed industrial workers (p<0.01). A significant increase in comet tail length was observed in the exposed groups (p<0.01) in comparison to the controls. In regression analysis, the data were observed to be significant at the level of p<0.05 for Group II industrial workers (t=2.301). CONCLUSION Sperm integrity is considered one of the major factors in male infertility. The sperm DNA damage is an important step from spermatogenesis to malfunctions such as infertility; therefore, the present study represents an important evaluation for correctly diagnosing the problem, precisely from the level of DNA itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vani Katukam
- Department of Zoology, Toxicology Lab, Osmania University College for Women, Hyderabad, India
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study examined the association between male infertility and certain occupational exposures. MATERIAL AND METHODS A case-control study was carried out from January 2008 to February 2009; on 255 infertile men and 267 fertile men controls. Occupational exposure to certain chemical, physical and psychological workplace hazards was assessed by self-report questionnaire. General and andrological examination was conducted for all participants, however, semen analysis was done only for the infertile men cases, because the fertile men controls refused to give semen samples. RESULTS After adjustment of confounders, the results revealed that the following workplace exposure factors significantly increased the risk of male infertility: solvents and painting materials (OR: 3.88, 95% CI: 1.50-10.03), lead (OR: 5.43, 95% CI: 1.28-23.13), VDTs and computers (OR: 8.01, 95% CI: 4.03-15.87), shift work (OR: 3.60, 95% CI: 1.12-11.57) and work-related stress (fairly present: OR: 3.11, 95% CI: 1.85-5.24; often present: OR: 3.76, 95% CI: 1.96-7.52). CONCLUSION In spite of the limitations of this study, it supports other studies that raise the attention to minimize the exposure to the workplace hazards that may affect the fertility of male workers.
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Verderame M, Prisco M, Andreuccetti P, Aniello F, Limatola E. Experimentally nonylphenol-polluted diet induces the expression of silent genes VTG and ERα in the liver of male lizard Podarcis sicula. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2011; 159:1101-1107. [PMID: 21397372 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2011.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/10/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine Disruptor Chemicals (EDCs) with estrogen-like properties i.e nonylphenol (NP) induce vitellogenin (VTG) synthesis in males of aquatic and semi-aquatic species. In the oviparous species VTG is a female-specific oestrogen dependent protein. Males are unable to synthesize VTG except after E2 treatment. This study aimed to verify if NP, administered via food and water, is able to induce the expression of VTG even in males of vertebrates with a terrestrial habitat such as the lizard Podarcis. By means of ICC, ISH, W/B and ELISA we demonstrated that NP induces the presence of VTG in the plasma and its expression in the liver. VTG, undetectable in untreated males, reaches the value of 4.34 μg/μl in the experimental ones. Expression analysis and ISH in the liver showed that an NP-polluted diet also elicits the expression of ERα in the liver which is known to be related to VTG synthesis in Podarcis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariailaria Verderame
- Department of Biological Sciences, Evolutionary and Comparative Biology Division, University Federico II of Naples, Via Mezzocannone 8, 80134 Naples, Italy
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Vaziri MH, Sadighi Gilani MA, Kavousi A, Firoozeh M, Khani Jazani R, Vosough Taqi Dizaj A, Mohseni H, Bagery Lankarani N, Azizi M, Salman Yazdi R. The Relationship between Occupation and Semen Quality. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2011; 5:66-71. [PMID: 24963361 PMCID: PMC4059951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2010] [Accepted: 05/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility can be a major concern for couples trying to conceive, and occupational hazards may constitute a main cause of infertility in men. Studies conducted throughout the world indicate that physical and chemical hazards in the workplace can have a negative impact on male fertility. The main objective of this study was to determine the frequency of occupational categories of men who attended an infertility clinic, and to evaluate the differences in the semen quality parameters among occupational categories. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1164 males who were referred to the Infertility Research Center in Tehran for treatment of infertility in order to evaluate the effects of certain occupations on infertility. The participants were divided into several categories according to their occupations and evaluated by means of a questionnaire for duration of infertility, BMI, sperm count, percentage of normal sperm morphology and percentages of sperm with class A and class B motilities. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, and correlations were conducted using SPSS 16.0 for Windows. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences in the mean sperm count or sperm morphology between occupational categories. Assessment of the differences in the frequency of sperm motility classes between occupational categories revealed a significant difference only in the frequency of sperm with class B motility. The lowest mean percentages of sperm with class B motility were seen in those involved in the transportation industry, a finding in agreement with a number of other researches. CONCLUSION Our findings revealed an association between occupation and sperm motility. Since our study population was relatively small and in many cases exposures to work hazards were brief, a larger study group must be evaluated in order to support the preliminary results of this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Vaziri
- Faculty of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive
Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran,
* Corresponding Addresses:
P.O.Box: 16585-116Faculty of HealthSafety and Environment (HSE)Shahid Beheshti University of Medi-
cal SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mohammad Ali Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive
Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran,
** P.O.Box: 16635-148Department of AndrologyReproductive Biomedicine Research CenterRoyan Institute for Reproductive BiomedicineACECRTehranIran
| | - Amir Kavousi
- Faculty of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marjan Firoozeh
- Faculty of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Khani Jazani
- Faculty of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Vosough Taqi Dizaj
- Department of Reproductive Imaging, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for
Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Habibesadat Mohseni
- Faculty of Health, Safety and Environment (HSE), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Bagery Lankarani
- Department of Epidemiology and Reproductive Health, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center,
Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Azizi
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive
Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Salman Yazdi
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive
Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Soares A, Guieysse B, Jefferson B, Cartmell E, Lester JN. Nonylphenol in the environment: a critical review on occurrence, fate, toxicity and treatment in wastewaters. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2008; 34:1033-49. [PMID: 18282600 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2008.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 663] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2007] [Revised: 01/09/2008] [Accepted: 01/11/2008] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Nonylphenol is a toxic xenobiotic compound classified as an endocrine disrupter capable of interfering with the hormonal system of numerous organisms. It originates principally from the degradation of nonylphenol ethoxylates which are widely used as industrial surfactants. Nonylphenol ethoxylates reach sewage treatment works in substantial quantities where they biodegrade into several by-products including nonylphenol. Due to its physical-chemical characteristics, such as low solubility and high hydrophobicity, nonylphenol accumulates in environmental compartments that are characterised by high organic content, typically sewage sludge and river sediments, where it persists. The occurrence of nonylphenol in the environment is clearly correlated with anthropogenic activities such as wastewater treatment, landfilling and sewage sludge recycling. Nonylphenol is found often in matrices such as sewage sludge, effluents from sewage treatment works, river water and sediments, soil and groundwater. The impacts of nonylphenol in the environment include feminization of aquatic organisms, decrease in male fertility and the survival of juveniles at concentrations as low as 8.2 microg/l. Due to the harmful effects of the degradation products of nonylphenol ethoxylates in the environment, the use and production of such compounds have been banned in EU countries and strictly monitored in many other countries such as Canada and Japan. Although it has been shown that the concentration of nonylphenol in the environment is decreasing, it is still found at concentrations of 4.1 microg/l in river waters and 1 mg/kg in sediments. Nonylphenol has been referred to in the list of priority substances in the Water Frame Directive and in the 3rd draft Working Document on Sludge of the EU. Consequently there is currently a concern within some industries about the possibility of future regulations that may impose the removal of trace contaminants from contaminated effluents. The significance of upgrading sewage treatment works with advanced treatment technologies for removal of trace contaminants is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Soares
- Cranfield University, Centre for Water Science, Cranfield, MK43 0AL, UK.
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21
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de Fleurian G, Perrin J, Lanteaume A, Achard V, Guichaoua MR, Grillo JM, Botta A, Sari-Minodier I. Expositions professionnelles et fertilité masculine : intérêt d’une collaboration entre médecine du travail et médecine de la reproduction. ARCH MAL PROF ENVIRO 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.admp.2008.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Exposure to environmental toxins in males seeking infertility treatment: a case-controlled study. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:842-50. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60151-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
There is accumulating evidence that workplace exposure to toxic substances contributes to male infertility. Men suffering from infertility problems may do well to look at their occupations, where exposure to certain substances may be a contributory factor, if not a direct cause, of infertility. Most of the studies to date are either case reports or epidemiological studies (population-based, case-control, or cohort studies). Additional, controlled studies need to be done to ascertain the effects of occupational toxins on male infertility. Until then, men and their employers should work together to minimize exposure to these substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Claman
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
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De Celis R, Pedrón-Nuevo N, González-Unzaga M, Fugarolas-Marín J, Feria-Velasco A. Increased frequency of micronuclei in immature seminal germinal cells of male workers exposed to aromatic hydrocarbons. Fertil Steril 2005; 84:808-10. [PMID: 16169433 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.02.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2004] [Revised: 02/25/2005] [Accepted: 02/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present work was to investigate whether there is an association between the presence of micronuclei in immature seminal germinal cells and occupational exposure to aromatic hydrocarbons in the workplace. We concluded that exposure of the workers to hydrocarbons in their workplace increased the frequency of micronuclei in immature seminal germinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth De Celis
- Western Biomedical Research Center, Mexican Institute for Social Security. Guadalajara, Mexico.
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Luderer U, Bushley A, Stover BD, Bremner WJ, Faustman EM, Takaro TK, Checkoway H, Brodkin CA. Effects of occupational solvent exposure on reproductive hormone concentrations and fecundability in men. Am J Ind Med 2004; 46:614-26. [PMID: 15551391 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.20100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the effects of organic solvents on male reproductive health. To assess fertility and reproductive endocrine function in solvent-exposed men, we investigated time-to-pregnancy using a retrospective cohort design and cross-sectionally measured reproductive hormone concentrations in painters and millwrights compared to a reference group of carpenters. METHODS Detailed occupational, exposure, medical, and time-to-pregnancy histories were obtained by telephone interview. Plasma luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone concentrations were determined by immunoassay. Exposure indices, which summarized working life exposure to total solvents, chlorinated solvents, aromatic solvents, and thinners, degreasers, varnishes, and adhesives as a category were calculated from exposure histories. RESULTS FSH concentrations increased significantly with increasing exposure indices for all solvents and for chlorinated solvents. There were no significant associations of solvent exposure indices with LH or testosterone levels. LH, FSH, and testosterone concentrations also did not differ by job title. Using Cox regression, time-to-pregnancy was non-significantly longer in the painters and millwrights than the carpenters. There was no significant association between time-to-pregnancy and any of the solvent exposure indices; however, it should be noted that some of the pregnancies occurred more than 20 years previously, potentially reducing the reliability of the retrospectively collected pregnancy and exposure data. CONCLUSIONS The significant associations between FSH levels and solvent exposure indices suggest the potential for adverse effects of solvent exposures on reproductive function in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Luderer
- Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, California 92617, USA.
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Rockett JC, Buck GM, Lynch CD, Perreault SD. The value of home-based collection of biospecimens in reproductive epidemiology. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2004; 112:94-104. [PMID: 14698937 PMCID: PMC1241803 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.6264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Detection, quantification, and prognosis of environmental exposures in humans has been vastly enhanced by the ability of epidemiologists to collect biospecimens for toxicologic or other laboratory evaluation. Ease of collection and level of invasiveness are commonly cited reasons why study participants fail to provide biospecimens for research purposes. The use of methodologies for the collection of biospecimens in the home offers promise for improving the validity of health effects linked to environmental exposures while maximizing the number and type of specimens capable of being collected in a timely and cost-effective manner. In this review we examine biospecimens (urine and blood) that have been successfully collected from the home environment. Related issues such as storage and transportation will also be examined as well as promising new approaches for collecting less frequently studied biospecimens (including hair follicles, breast milk, semen, and others). Such biospecimens are useful in the monitoring of reproductive development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Rockett
- Reproductive Toxicology Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, USA.
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Ford WCL, Northstone K, Farrow A. Male employment in some printing trades is associated with prolonged time to conception. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002; 25:295-300. [PMID: 12270027 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2605.2002.00366.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether male employment in defined occupational groups was associated with decreased fecundity as revealed by prolonged time to conception. The analysis was carried out on data from questionnaires completed over a period of 21 months by 4808 couples with a planned pregnancy and collected as part of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood. Previously logistic regression had identified nine non-occupational factors associated with taking >6 or >12 months to conceive and this model was used to analyse the association of the fathers ever having worked in defined occupational groups with delayed conception. If the man had worked in 'Printing and related trades' (OPCS code 56), couples had a statistically significantly increased odds ratio (OR) of taking >6 [1.86 (1.21, 2.94)] or >12 months [1.96 (1.13, 3.39)] to conceive [OR (95% confidence intervals)] after adjustment for non-occupational factors. The association with time to conception was stronger in the subgroup 'Other printing related trades' (OPCS code 569) but no statistically significant associations after adjustment for other factors were found for other printing jobs.
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Affiliation(s)
- W C L Ford
- Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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