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Peters AE, Ford EA, Roman SD, Bromfield EG, Nixon B, Pringle KG, Sutherland JM. Impact of Bisphenol A and its alternatives on oocyte health: a scoping review. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae025. [PMID: 39277428 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disrupting chemical released from plastic materials, including food packaging and dental sealants, persisting in the environment and ubiquitously contaminating ecosystems and human populations. BPA can elicit an array of damaging health effects and, alarmingly, 'BPA-free' alternatives mirror these harmful effects. Bisphenol exposure can negatively impact female fertility, damaging both the ovary and oocytes therein. Such damage can diminish reproductive capacity, pregnancy success, and offspring health. Despite global government regulations in place to indicate 'safe' BPA exposure levels, these policies have not considered the effects of bisphenols on oocyte health. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This scoping review was conducted to evaluate evidence on the effects of BPA and BPA alternatives on standardized parameters of oocyte health. In doing so, this review addresses a critical gap in the literature providing a comprehensive, up-to-date synthesis of the effects of bisphenols on oocyte health. SEARCH METHODS This scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Four databases, Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched twice (23 February 2022 and 1 August 2023) to capture studies assessing mammalian oocyte health post-bisphenol exposure. Search terms regarding oocytes, ovarian follicles, and bisphenols were utilized to identify relevant studies. Manuscripts written in English and reporting the effect of any bisphenol on mammalian oocyte health from all years were included. Parameters for toxicological studies were evaluated, including the number of bisphenol concentrations/doses tested, dosing regimen, biological replicates and/or animal numbers, and statistical information (for human studies). Standardized parameters of oocyte health including follicle counts, oocyte yield, oocyte meiotic capacity, morphology of oocyte and cumulus cells, and oocyte meiotic spindle integrity were extracted across the studies. OUTCOMES After screening 3147 studies, 107 studies of either humans or mammalian animal models or humans were included. Of the in vitro exposure studies, 96.3% (26/27) and 94.1% (16/17) found at least one adverse effect on oocyte health using BPA or BPA alternatives (including BHPF, BPAF, BPB, BPF, and BPS), respectively. These included increased meiotic cell cycle arrest, altered morphology, and abnormal meiotic spindle/chromosomal alignment. In vivo, 85.7% (30/35) of studies on BPA and 92.3% (12/13) on BPA alternatives documented adverse effects on follicle development, morphology, or spindle/chromosome alignment. Importantly, these effects were recorded using levels below those deemed 'safe' for human exposure. Over half (11/21) of all human observational studies showed associations between higher urinary BPA levels and reduced antral follicle counts or oocyte yield in IVF patients. Recommendations are presented based on the identified shortcomings of the current evidence, incorporating elements of FDA requirements for future research in the field. WIDER IMPLICATIONS These data highlight the detrimental impacts of low-level BPA and BPA alternative exposure, contributing to poor oocyte quality and reduced fertility. These outcomes are valuable in promoting the revision of current policies and guidelines pertaining to BPA exposure internationally. This study serves as a valuable resource to scientists, providing key recommendations on study design, reporting elements, and endpoint measures to strengthen future studies. Ultimately, this review highlights oocyte health as a fundamentally important endpoint in reproductive toxicological studies, indicating an important direction for future research into endocrine disrupting chemicals to improve fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra E Peters
- School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine, and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program and Women's Health Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Emmalee A Ford
- School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine, and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program and Women's Health Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- The Research Centre, Family Planning Australia, Newington, NSW, Australia
| | - Shaun D Roman
- Department of Research, NSW Health Pathology, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Faculty of Science, School of BioSciences, Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science, and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, Science, and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Infertility and Reproduction Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Kirsty G Pringle
- School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine, and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program and Women's Health Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jessie M Sutherland
- School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine, and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program and Women's Health Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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Chen C, Huang Z, Dong S, Ding M, Li J, Wang M, Zeng X, Zhang X, Sun X. Calcium signaling in oocyte quality and functionality and its application. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1411000. [PMID: 39220364 PMCID: PMC11361953 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1411000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+) is a second messenger for many signal pathways, and changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) are an important signaling mechanism in the oocyte maturation, activation, fertilization, function regulation of granulosa and cumulus cells and offspring development. Ca2+ oscillations occur during oocyte maturation and fertilization, which are maintained by Ca2+ stores and extracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]e). Abnormalities in Ca2+ signaling can affect the release of the first polar body, the first meiotic division, and chromosome and spindle morphology. Well-studied aspects of Ca2+ signaling in the oocyte are oocyte activation and fertilization. Oocyte activation, driven by sperm-specific phospholipase PLCζ, is initiated by concerted intracellular patterns of Ca2+ release, termed Ca2+ oscillations. Ca2+ oscillations persist for a long time during fertilization and are coordinately engaged by a variety of Ca2+ channels, pumps, regulatory proteins and their partners. Calcium signaling also regulates granulosa and cumulus cells' function, which further affects oocyte maturation and fertilization outcome. Clinically, there are several physical and chemical options for treating fertilization failure through oocyte activation. Additionally, various exogenous compounds or drugs can cause ovarian dysfunction and female infertility by inducing abnormal Ca2+ signaling or Ca2+ dyshomeostasis in oocytes and granulosa cells. Therefore, the reproductive health risks caused by adverse stresses should arouse our attention. This review will systematically summarize the latest research progress on the aforementioned aspects and propose further research directions on calcium signaling in female reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Zefan Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Shijue Dong
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Mengqian Ding
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Jinran Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xuhui Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaoli Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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Wang J, Zhao C, Feng J, Sun P, Zhang Y, Han A, Zhang Y, Ma H. Advances in understanding the reproductive toxicity of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in women. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1390247. [PMID: 38606320 PMCID: PMC11007058 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1390247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in disorders of the female reproductive system, accompanied by a rise in adverse pregnancy outcomes. This trend is increasingly being linked to environmental pollution, particularly through the lens of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs). These external agents disrupt natural processes of hormones, including synthesis, metabolism, secretion, transport, binding, as well as elimination. These disruptions can significantly impair human reproductive functions. A wealth of animal studies and epidemiological research indicates that exposure to toxic environmental factors can interfere with the endocrine system's normal functioning, resulting in negative reproductive outcomes. However, the mechanisms of these adverse effects are largely unknown. This work reviews the reproductive toxicity of five major environmental EDCs-Bisphenol A (BPA), Phthalates (PAEs), Triclocarban Triclosan and Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)-to lay a foundational theoretical basis for further toxicological study of EDCs. Additionally, it aims to spark advancements in the prevention and treatment of female reproductive toxicity caused by these chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinguang Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center of Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Chunwu Zhao
- Gastrointestinal Surgery Center of Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Jie Feng
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Department, Fangzi District People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Pingping Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center of Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Yuhua Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center of Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Ailing Han
- Reproductive Medicine Center of Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Yuemin Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center of Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Huagang Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center of Weifang People’s Hospital, Weifang, China
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Wu X, Tian Y, Zhu H, Xu P, Zhang J, Hu Y, Ji X, Yan R, Yue H, Sang N. Invisible Hand behind Female Reproductive Disorders: Bisphenols, Recent Evidence and Future Perspectives. TOXICS 2023; 11:1000. [PMID: 38133401 PMCID: PMC10748066 DOI: 10.3390/toxics11121000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive disorders are considered a global health problem influenced by physiological, genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The increased exposure to bisphenols, a chemical used in large quantities for the production of polycarbonate plastics, has raised concerns regarding health risks in humans, particularly their endocrine-disrupting effects on female reproductive health. To provide a basis for future research on environmental interference and reproductive health, we reviewed relevant studies on the exposure patterns and levels of bisphenols in environmental matrices and humans (including susceptible populations such as pregnant women and children). In addition, we focused on in vivo, in vitro, and epidemiological studies evaluating the effects of bisphenols on the female reproductive system (the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and vagina). The results indicate that bisphenols cause structural and functional damage to the female reproductive system by interfering with hormones; activating receptors; inducing oxidative stress, DNA damage, and carcinogenesis; and triggering epigenetic changes, with the damaging effects being intergenerational. Epidemiological studies support the association between bisphenols and diseases such as cancer of the female reproductive system, reproductive dysfunction, and miscarriage, which may negatively affect the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Altogether, this review provides a reference for assessing the adverse effects of bisphenols on female reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyun Wu
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Yuchai Tian
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Huizhen Zhu
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Pengchong Xu
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Jiyue Zhang
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Yangcheng Hu
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Xiaotong Ji
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China;
| | - Ruifeng Yan
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Huifeng Yue
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
| | - Nan Sang
- Research Center of Environment and Health, College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; (X.W.); (Y.T.); (H.Z.); (P.X.); (J.Z.); (Y.H.); (N.S.)
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