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Jiang B, Pang J, Li J, Mi L, Ru D, Feng J, Li X, Zhao A, Cai L. The effects of organic food on human health: a systematic review and meta-analysis of population-based studies. Nutr Rev 2024; 82:1151-1175. [PMID: 37930102 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuad124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Although the nutritional composition of organic food has been thoroughly researched, there is a dearth of published data relating to its impact on human health. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aimed to examine the association between organic food intake and health effects, including changes in in vivo biomarkers, disease prevalence, and functional changes. DATA SOURCES PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception through Nov 13, 2022. DATA EXTRACTION Both observational and interventional studies conducted in human populations were included, and association between level of organic food intake and each outcome was quantified as "no association," "inconsistent," "beneficial correlation/harmful correlation," or "insufficient". For outcomes with sufficient data reported by at least 3 studies, meta-analyses were conducted, using random-effects models to calculate standardized mean differences. DATA ANALYSIS Based on the included 23 observational and 27 interventional studies, the association between levels of organic food intake and (i) pesticide exposure biomarker was assessed as "beneficial correlation," (ii) toxic metals and carotenoids in the plasma was assessed as "no association," (iii) fatty acids in human milk was assessed as "insufficient," (iv) phenolics was assessed as "beneficial", and serum parameters and antioxidant status was assessed as "inconsistent". For diseases and functional changes, there was an overall "beneficial" association with organic food intake, and there were similar findings for obesity and body mass index. However, evidence for association of organic food intake with other single diseases was assessed as "insufficient" due to the limited number and extent of studies. CONCLUSION Organic food intake was found to have a beneficial impact in terms of reducing pesticide exposure, and the general effect on disease and functional changes (body mass index, male sperm quality) was appreciable. More long-term studies are required, especially for single diseases. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022350175.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibo Jiang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinzhu Pang
- Inner Mongolia Mengniu Dairy (Group) Co., Ltd, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Bellamy Food Trade (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Junan Li
- Inner Mongolia Mengniu Dairy (Group) Co., Ltd, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Bellamy Food Trade (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijuan Mi
- Inner Mongolia Mengniu Dairy (Group) Co., Ltd, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Bellamy Food Trade (Shanghai) Co., Ltd, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongmei Ru
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingxi Feng
- School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxu Li
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ai Zhao
- Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Cai
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China
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Bellingham M, Evans N. IMPACT OF REAL-LIFE ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURES ON REPRODUCTION: Biosolids and male reproduction. Reproduction 2024; 168:e240119. [PMID: 38847770 PMCID: PMC11286255 DOI: 10.1530/rep-24-0119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Over the past 50 years, there has been a concerning decline in male reproductive health and an increase in male infertility which is now recognised as a major health concern globally. While male infertility can be linked to some genetic and lifestyle factors, these do not fully explain the rate of declining male reproductive health. Increasing evidence from human and animal studies suggests that exposure to chemicals found ubiquitously in the environment may in part play a role. Many studies on chemical exposure, however, have assessed the effects of exposure to individual environmental chemicals (ECs), usually at levels not relevant to everyday human exposure. There is a need for study models which reflect the 'real-life' nature of EC exposure. One such model is the biosolids-treated pasture (BTP) sheep model which utilises biosolids application to agricultural land to examine the effects of exposure to low-level mixtures of chemicals. Biosolids are the by-product of the treatment of wastewater from industrial and domestic sources and so their composition is reflective of the ECs to which humans are exposed. Over the last 20 years, the BTP sheep model has published multiple effects on offspring physiology including consistent effects on the male reproductive system in fetal, neonatal, juvenile, and adult offspring. This review focuses on the evidence from these studies which strongly suggests that low-level EC exposure during gestation can alter several components of the male reproductive system and highlights the BTP model as a more relevant model to study real-life EC exposure effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Bellingham
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Neil Evans
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Holmboe SA, Beck AL, Andersson AM, Main KM, Jørgensen N, Skakkebæk NE, Priskorn L. The epidemiology of cryptorchidism and potential risk factors, including endocrine disrupting chemicals. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1343887. [PMID: 38633762 PMCID: PMC11021654 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1343887] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Congenital cryptorchidism, also known as undescended testis, is the condition where one or both testes are not in place in the scrotum at birth and is one of the most common birth defects in boys. Temporal trends and geographic variation in the prevalence of cryptorchidism from 1% to 9% have been reported in prospective cohort studies. The testes develop in the abdominal cavity and descend to the scrotum in two phases, which should be completed by gestational week 35. Thus, the risk of cryptorchidism is higher in preterm boys. In many cases a spontaneous descent occurs during the first months of life during the surge of gonadotropins and testosterone. If not, the testis is usually brought down to the scrotum, typically by surgery, to increase future fertility chances and facilitate cancer surveillance. The increasing frequency of impaired semen quality and testicular cancer, with which cryptorchidism is associated, represents a concern for male reproductive health in general and a need to understand its risk factors. The risk of cryptorchidism is closely related to gestational factors (preterm birth, low birth weight and intrauterine growth restriction), and especially maternal smoking seems to be a risk factor. Evidence is accumulating that the increasing prevalence of cryptorchidism is also related to prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals, including endocrine disrupting compounds. This association has been corroborated in rodents and supported by ecological studies. Conducting human studies to assess the effect of endocrine disrupting chemicals and their interactions is, however, challenged by the widespread concomitant exposure of all humans to a wide range of chemicals, the combined effect of which and their interactions are highly complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine A. Holmboe
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Astrid L. Beck
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katharina M. Main
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels E. Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Ramsay JM, Madsen MJ, Horns JJ, Hanson HA, Camp NJ, Emery BR, Aston KI, Ferlic E, Hotaling JM. Describing patterns of familial cancer risk in subfertile men using population pedigree data. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:822-833. [PMID: 38383051 PMCID: PMC10988109 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can we simultaneously assess risk for multiple cancers to identify familial multicancer patterns in families of azoospermic and severely oligozoospermic men? SUMMARY ANSWER Distinct familial cancer patterns were observed in the azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia cohorts, suggesting heterogeneity in familial cancer risk by both type of subfertility and within subfertility type. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Subfertile men and their relatives show increased risk for certain cancers including testicular, thyroid, and pediatric. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A retrospective cohort of subfertile men (N = 786) was identified and matched to fertile population controls (N = 5674). Family members out to third-degree relatives were identified for both subfertile men and fertile population controls (N = 337 754). The study period was 1966-2017. Individuals were censored at death or loss to follow-up, loss to follow-up occurred if they left Utah during the study period. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Azoospermic (0 × 106/mL) and severely oligozoospermic (<1.5 × 106/mL) men were identified in the Subfertility Health and Assisted Reproduction and the Environment cohort (SHARE). Subfertile men were age- and sex-matched 5:1 to fertile population controls and family members out to third-degree relatives were identified using the Utah Population Database (UPDB). Cancer diagnoses were identified through the Utah Cancer Registry. Families containing ≥10 members with ≥1 year of follow-up 1966-2017 were included (azoospermic: N = 426 families, 21 361 individuals; oligozoospermic: N = 360 families, 18 818 individuals). Unsupervised clustering based on standardized incidence ratios for 34 cancer phenotypes in the families was used to identify familial multicancer patterns; azoospermia and severe oligospermia families were assessed separately. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Compared to control families, significant increases in cancer risks were observed in the azoospermia cohort for five cancer types: bone and joint cancers hazard ratio (HR) = 2.56 (95% CI = 1.48-4.42), soft tissue cancers HR = 1.56 (95% CI = 1.01-2.39), uterine cancers HR = 1.27 (95% CI = 1.03-1.56), Hodgkin lymphomas HR = 1.60 (95% CI = 1.07-2.39), and thyroid cancer HR = 1.54 (95% CI = 1.21-1.97). Among severe oligozoospermia families, increased risk was seen for three cancer types: colon cancer HR = 1.16 (95% CI = 1.01-1.32), bone and joint cancers HR = 2.43 (95% CI = 1.30-4.54), and testis cancer HR = 2.34 (95% CI = 1.60-3.42) along with a significant decrease in esophageal cancer risk HR = 0.39 (95% CI = 0.16-0.97). Thirteen clusters of familial multicancer patterns were identified in families of azoospermic men, 66% of families in the azoospermia cohort showed population-level cancer risks, however, the remaining 12 clusters showed elevated risk for 2-7 cancer types. Several of the clusters with elevated cancer risks also showed increased odds of cancer diagnoses at young ages with six clusters showing increased odds of adolescent and young adult (AYA) diagnosis [odds ratio (OR) = 1.96-2.88] and two clusters showing increased odds of pediatric cancer diagnosis (OR = 3.64-12.63). Within the severe oligozoospermia cohort, 12 distinct familial multicancer clusters were identified. All 12 clusters showed elevated risk for 1-3 cancer types. An increase in odds of cancer diagnoses at young ages was also seen in five of the severe oligozoospermia familial multicancer clusters, three clusters showed increased odds of AYA diagnosis (OR = 2.19-2.78) with an additional two clusters showing increased odds of a pediatric diagnosis (OR = 3.84-9.32). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although this study has many strengths, including population data for family structure, cancer diagnoses and subfertility, there are limitations. First, semen measures are not available for the sample of fertile men. Second, there is no information on medical comorbidities or lifestyle risk factors such as smoking status, BMI, or environmental exposures. Third, all of the subfertile men included in this study were seen at a fertility clinic for evaluation. These men were therefore a subset of the overall population experiencing fertility problems and likely represent those with the socioeconomic means for evaluation by a physician. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This analysis leveraged unique population-level data resources, SHARE and the UPDB, to describe novel multicancer clusters among the families of azoospermic and severely oligozoospermic men. Distinct overall multicancer risk and familial multicancer patterns were observed in the azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia cohorts, suggesting heterogeneity in cancer risk by type of subfertility and within subfertility type. Describing families with similar cancer risk patterns provides a new avenue to increase homogeneity for focused gene discovery and environmental risk factor studies. Such discoveries will lead to more accurate risk predictions and improved counseling for patients and their families. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by GEMS: Genomic approach to connecting Elevated germline Mutation rates with male infertility and Somatic health (Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD): R01 HD106112). The authors have no conflicts of interest relevant to this work. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joemy M Ramsay
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael J Madsen
- Utah Population Database, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Joshua J Horns
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Heidi A Hanson
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Advanced Computing for Health Sciences, Computational Sciences and Engineering Division, Oakridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN, USA
| | - Nicola J Camp
- Utah Population Database, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Benjamin R Emery
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - James M Hotaling
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Xie Q, Cao H, Liu H, Xia K, Gao Y, Deng C. Prenatal DEHP exposure induces lifelong testicular toxicity by continuously interfering with steroidogenic gene expression. Transl Androl Urol 2024; 13:369-382. [PMID: 38590960 PMCID: PMC10999017 DOI: 10.21037/tau-23-503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Epidemiologic studies suggested the association between prenatal di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure and disorders of sex development (DSD), adult male disorders, and reproductive aging. Inhibiting testosterone synthesis by interfering with steroidogenic gene expression induces testicular toxicity, however, whether prenatal DEHP exposure induces testicular toxicity through this mechanism remains uncertain. Methods C57BL/6JGpt male mice underwent different doses (0, 100, 500, 1,000 mg/kg) of prenatal DEHP exposure during gestational day 10 to delivery day, the testicular toxicity (genital development, testosterone, semen quality, and morphology of testis tissue) in the neonatal, post-puberal and middle-aged stages was observed, and the steroidogenic gene (Lhcgr, Star, Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, Hsd17b3, and Hsd3b2) expression was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blot (WB). The interference of steroidogenic gene expression in TM3 cells after mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) exposure was also explored for verification. Results Prenatal DEHP exposure induced immediate testicular injury in the neonatal stage [reduced anogenital distance (AGD) and intratesticular testosterone], DSD in the post-puberal stage (poor genital development), and reproductive aging in the middle-aged stage (obesity, reduced testosterone and semen quality, and atrophic seminiferous tubules), especially in the high dose. Prenatal DEHP exposure continuously interfered with steroidogenic gene expression (Hsd3b2, Hsd17b3) in RNA and protein levels. MEHP inhibited testosterone synthesis of TM3 cells by interfering with steroidogenic gene expression (Hsd3b2, Hsd17b3) in RNA and protein levels. Conclusions Prenatal DEHP exposure induces lifelong testicular toxicity by continuously interfering with steroidogenic gene expression, thus indicating the association between prenatal exposure and DSD, adult male disorders, and reproductive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qigen Xie
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Andrology, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haiming Cao
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Center of the Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hanchao Liu
- Department of Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Affiliated with the Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kai Xia
- Department of Andrology, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunhua Deng
- Department of Andrology, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Zilliacus J, Draskau MK, Johansson HKL, Svingen T, Beronius A. Building an adverse outcome pathway network for estrogen-, androgen- and steroidogenesis-mediated reproductive toxicity. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2024; 6:1357717. [PMID: 38601197 PMCID: PMC11005472 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2024.1357717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Adverse Outcome Pathways (AOPs) can support both testing and assessment of endocrine disruptors (EDs). There is, however, a need for further development of the AOP framework to improve its applicability in a regulatory context. Here we have inventoried the AOP-wiki to identify all existing AOPs related to mammalian reproductive toxicity arising from disruption to the estrogen, androgen, and steroidogenesis modalities. Core key events (KEs) shared between relevant AOPs were also identified to aid in further AOP network (AOPN) development. Methods: A systematic approach using two different methods was applied to screen and search the entire AOP-wiki library. An AOPN was visualized using Cytoscape. Manual refinement was performed to remove AOPS devoid of any KEs and/or KERs. Results: Fifty-eight AOPs relevant for mammalian reproductive toxicity were originally identified, with 42 AOPs included in the final AOPN. Several of the KEs and KE relationships (KERs) described similar events and were thus merged to optimize AOPN construction. Sixteen sub-networks related to effects on hormone levels or hormone activity, cancer outcomes, male and female reproductive systems, and overall effects on fertility and reproduction were identified within the AOPN. Twenty-six KEs and 11 KERs were identified as core blocks of knowledge in the AOPN, of which 19 core KEs are already included as parameters in current OECD and US EPA test guidelines. Discussion: The AOPN highlights knowledge gaps that can be targeted for further development of a more complete AOPN that can support the identification and assessment of EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Zilliacus
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Monica K. Draskau
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anna Beronius
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Sung CR, Kim BJ, Park CJ, Oh IA, Lee YJ, Park YR, Kwack SJ. Evaluation of the anti-androgenic and cytotoxic effects of benzophenone-3 in male Sprague-Dawley rats. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2024; 87:266-273. [PMID: 38166509 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2023.2300785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Benzophenone-3 (BP-3, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, oxybenzone) is one of the most widely used types of benzophenone organic sunscreen. However, this compound is a potentially harmful toxicant. The aim of this study was 2-fold to: (1) utilize a Hershberger bioassay in vivo in castrated male Sprague-Dawley rats to investigate the anti-androgenic activities of BP-3, and (2) use in vitro a methyl tetrazolium assay to compare the toxicity between Leydig cells (TM3 cells) and mouse fibroblast (NIH-3T3) cell lines. In the Hershberger assay, rats were divided into 6 groups (each of n = 7): a vehicle control, negative control, positive control, PB-3 low (40 mg/kg), BP-3 intermediate (200 mg/kg), and BP-3 high (1000 mg/kg)-dose. The weight of the ventral prostate was significantly decreased at BP-3 doses of 200 or 1,000 mg/kg/day. In addition, the levator anibulbocavernosus muscle weights were also significantly reduced at BP-3 doses of 40, 200, or 1,000 mg/kg/day. In the MTT assay, the viability of NIH-3T3 mouse fibroblast cells was within the normal range. However, the TM3 mouse testis Leydig cell viability was significantly lowered in a concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, data indicate that BP-3 might exert in vivo anti-androgenic and in vitro cytotoxic effects in cells associated with the male reproductive system compared to normal non-reproductive cells.Abbreviation: BP-3: benzophenone-3; CG: Cowper's gland; DMEM: Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium; DMSO: dimethyl sulfoxide; GP: glans penis; LABC: levator anibulbocavernosus muscle; MTT: methyl tetrazolium; NC: negative control; PC: positive control; SV: seminal vesicle; TP: testosterone propionate; VC: vehicle control; VP: ventral prostate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Rim Sung
- Department of Bio Health Science, College of Natural Science, Changwon National University, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong Jun Kim
- Nonclinical Research Center, Chemon Inc., Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Ju Park
- Department of Bio Health Science, College of Natural Science, Changwon National University, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - In Ah Oh
- Department of Bio Health Science, College of Natural Science, Changwon National University, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Jin Lee
- Department of Bio Health Science, College of Natural Science, Changwon National University, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeo Rim Park
- Department of Bio Health Science, College of Natural Science, Changwon National University, Changwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Jun Kwack
- Department of Bio Health Science, College of Natural Science, Changwon National University, Changwon, Republic of Korea
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Shi B, He E, Chang K, Xu G, Meng Q, Xu H, Chen Z, Wang X, Jia M, Sun W, Zhao W, Zhao H, Dong L, Cui H. Genistein prevents the production of hypospadias induced by Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate through androgen signaling and antioxidant response in rats. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 466:133537. [PMID: 38244450 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Environmental estrogen exposure has increased dramatically over the past 50 years. In particular, prenatal exposure to estrogen causes many congenital diseases, among which reproductive system development disorders are extremely serious. In this study, the molecular mechanism of hypospadias and the therapeutic effect of genistein (GEN) were investigated through in vivo models prepared by Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exposure between 12 and 19 days of gestation. With increased DEHP concentrations, the incidence of hypospadias increased gradually. DEHP inhibited the key enzymes involved in steroid synthesis, resulting in decreasing testosterone synthesis. At the same time, DEHP increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and produced inflammatory factors via NADPH oxidase-1 (NOX1) and NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX4) pathways. It also inhibited Steroid 5 α Reductase 2 (Srd5α2) and decreased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) synthesis. Additionally, DEHP inhibited the androgen receptor (AR), resulting in reduced DHT binding to the AR that ultimately retarded the development of the external reproductive system. GEN, a phytoestrogen, competes with DEHP for binding to estrogen receptor β (ERβ). This competition, along with GEN's antiestrogen and antioxidant properties, could potentially reverse impairments. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the role of phytoestrogens in alleviating environmental estrogen-induced congenital diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Shi
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Enyang He
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Kaili Chang
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Guodong Xu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Qingya Meng
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Haihua Xu
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Ziying Chen
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Xiaojia Wang
- Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China
| | - Miao Jia
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Wenjing Sun
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Hailan Zhao
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Liang Dong
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China.
| | - Hualei Cui
- Graduate School, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China; Tianjin Children's Hospital (Tianjin University Children's Hospital), Tianjin 300134, China.
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Reyes-Cruz E, Rojas-Castañeda JC, Landero-Huerta DA, Hernández-Jardón N, Reynoso-Robles R, Juárez-Mosqueda MDL, Medrano A, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM. Disruption of gonocyte development following neonatal exposure to di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100877. [PMID: 38461794 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100877] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Pre- and/or post-natal administrations of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in experimental animals cause alterations in the spermatogenesis. However, the mechanism by which DEHP affects fertility is unknown and could be through alterations in the survival and differentiation of the gonocytes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a single administration of DEHP in newborn mice on gonocytic proliferation, differentiation and survival and its long-term effects on seminiferous epithelium and sperm quality. BALB/c mice distributed into Control and DEHP groups were used. Each animal in the DEHP group was given a single dose of 500 mg/Kg at birth. The animals were analyzed at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 70 days postpartum (dpp). Testicular tissues were processed for morphological analysis to determine the different types of gonocytes, differentiation index, seminiferous epithelial alterations, and immunoreactivity to Stra8, Pcna and Vimentin proteins. Long-term evaluation of the seminiferous epithelium and sperm quality were carried out at 70 dpp. The DEHP animal group presented gonocytic degeneration with delayed differentiation, causing a reduction in the population of spermatogonia (Stra8 +) in the cellular proliferation (Pcna+) and disorganization of Vimentin filaments. These events had long-term repercussions on the quality of the seminiferous epithelium and semen. Our study demonstrates that at birth, there is a period that the testes are extremely sensitive to DEHP exposure, which leads to gonocytic degeneration and delay in their differentiation. This situation can have long-term repercussions or permanent effects on the quality of the seminiferous epithelium and sperm parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefanía Reyes-Cruz
- Programa Doctorado en Ciencias de la Producción y de la Salud Animal, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - Norma Hernández-Jardón
- Programa Doctorado en Ciencias de la Producción y de la Salud Animal, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rafael Reynoso-Robles
- Laboratorio de Morfología Celular y Tisular, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, SS, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - María de Lourdes Juárez-Mosqueda
- Departamento de Morfología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alfredo Medrano
- Laboratorio de Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico
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10
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Coelho N, Camarinho R, Garcia P, Rodrigues AS. Histological evidence of hypothyroidism in mice chronically exposed to conventional farming. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 106:104387. [PMID: 38364936 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Worldwide, disorders of the thyroid gland are a growing concern; such can be caused by exposure to contaminants, including agrochemicals used in conventional agriculture, which act as endocrine disruptors. The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether or not exposure to an environment with conventional agriculture leads to thyroid disruption. Mus musculus were used as bioindicator species, captured in two sites: a farm where conventional agriculture is practiced, and a place without agriculture. Thyroid histomorphometric and morphologic data were analyzed. The impacts of the agricultural environment over the thyroid were revealed, as indications of hypothyroidism were observed in exposed mice: the area and volume of epithelial cells were much lower. Alterations in thyroid histomorphology were also observed: lower follicular sphericity, irregularly delimited epithelium and increased exfoliation into the colloid. These results highlight the need for transition from current conventional agricultural systems towards organic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nádia Coelho
- FCT, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada 9501-801, Portugal.
| | - Ricardo Camarinho
- FCT, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada 9501-801, Portugal; IVAR, Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada 9501-801, Portugal.
| | - Patrícia Garcia
- FCT, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada 9501-801, Portugal; cE3c - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes & CHANGE - Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Azorean Biodiversity Group, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada 9501-801, Portugal.
| | - Armindo S Rodrigues
- FCT, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada 9501-801, Portugal; IVAR, Institute of Volcanology and Risks Assessment, University of the Azores, Ponta Delgada 9501-801, Portugal.
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11
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Li N, Sun DM, Chang YZ, Li XN, Li JL, Wang TQ. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exacerbates abnormalities of testicular development in F1 males via inhibition the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123170. [PMID: 38135137 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The theory of "Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD)" espouses that environmental exposures to toxicants during critical developmental stages can affect health outcomes in adulthood. Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is a plasticizer that can be transferred to developing organisms via the placenta and breast milk as an environmental endocrine disruptor. We herein implemented a cross-fostering model to decipher the contributions of prenatal vs. postnatal exposure to low or high dose DEHP (30 or 500 mg/kg-bw•d) on reproductive outcomes in male offspring and the underlying mechanism of action. Unexpectedly, we observed that postnatal DEHP exposure programmed weight gain in a dose-dependent manner, in-utero exposure to high dose DEHP appeared to constitute a significant factor in the weight loss of male offspring. Moreover, in the low dose group, offspring of control that were suckled by DEHP dams (CC-DE) generated a considerable number of adverse reproductive outcomes compared with the offspring of DEHP that were suckled by control dams (DE-CC), based on histopathologic alterations in the testis, blockage of sex hormone secretion, and transcriptional inhibition of steroid-hormone-related factors in the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis. However, DE-CC group affected reproductive dysfunction in male offspring more so than CC-DE in the high dose group. Mechanistically, DEHP contributed to the inhibition of steroidogenesis by perturbing the Wnt/β-catenin-signaling pathway. These studies confirm the sensitivity window in which future reproductive outcomes in offspring are influenced following developmental exposure to DEHP at two different dosages, and reveals a critical role for the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in DEHP-induced male reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- Center of laboratory animal, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, PR China.
| | - De-Ming Sun
- Center of laboratory animal, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, PR China
| | - Yong-Zhang Chang
- Center of laboratory animal, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, PR China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, PR China
| | - Tian-Qi Wang
- Center of laboratory animal, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing, 100081, PR China.
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12
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Lee SJ, Park MJ, Jeong DH, Arunachalam R, Yoo E, Kim HK, Park MH. Protective effect of gomisin N on benzyl butyl phthalate-induced dysfunction of testosterone production in TM3 Leydig cells. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:117. [PMID: 38227285 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-09060-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP) may induce disorders in the male reproductive system. However, the molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Here we investigated the effect of BBP on testosterone production and its molecular mechanisms. Furthermore, we also investigated the role of gomisin N (GN) from Schisandra chinensis (S. chinensis) in testosterone synthesis in TM3 Leydig cells. METHOD AND RESULTS First, we examined the effects of BBP on expression levels of testosterone biosynthesis-related genes (StAR, CYP11α1, CYP17α1, 3βHSD, and 17βHSD) and attenuation-related genes (CYP1β1, CYP19α1, and Srd5α1-3). Although testosterone biosynthesis-related genes did not change, attenuation-related genes such as CYP1β1 and CYP19α1 were upregulated with ROS generation and testosterone level attenuation in the presence of 50 µM of BBP. However, the compound with the highest ROS and ONOO- scavenging activity from S. chinensis, GN, significantly reversed the expression of BBP-induced testosterone attenuation-related gene to normal levels. Subsequently, GN improved the testosterone production levels in TM3 Leydig cells. These events may be regulated by the antioxidant effect of GN. CONCLUSIONS On conclusion, our study suggests, for the first time, that BBP impairs testosterone synthesis by the modulation of CYP1β1 and CYP19α1 expression in TM3 cells; GN could potentially minimize the BBP-induced dysfunction of TM3 cells to produce testosterone by suppressing CYP19α1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Ju Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea
- Brain Busan 21 Plus Research Project Group, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Ju Park
- College of Pharmacy, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Hyeok Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea
| | - Rohith Arunachalam
- College of Engineering, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
| | - Eunsoo Yoo
- College of Engineering, North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, NC, 27411, USA
| | - Hye Kyung Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea.
- Brain Busan 21 Plus Research Project Group, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea.
| | - Min Hi Park
- College of Pharmacy, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea.
- Brain Busan 21 Plus Research Project Group, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Niavarani Z, Breite D, Ulutaş B, Prager A, Ömer Kantoğlu, Abel B, Gläser R, Schulze A. Enhanced EDC removal from water through electron beam-mediated adsorber particle integration in microfiltration membranes. RSC Adv 2023; 13:32928-32938. [PMID: 38025853 PMCID: PMC10630744 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra06345c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The existence of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in water and wastewater gives rise to significant environmental concerns. Conventional treatment approaches demonstrate limited capacity for EDC removal. Thus, incorporation of advanced separation procedures becomes essential to enhance the efficiency of EDC removal. In this work, adsorber composite microfiltration polyethersulfone membranes embedded with divinyl benzene polymer particles were created. These membranes were designed for effectively removing a variety of EDCs from water. The adsorber particles were synthesized using precipitation polymerization. Subsequently, they were integrated into the membrane scaffold through a phase inversion process. The technique of electron beam irradiation was applied for the covalent immobilization of particles within the membrane scaffold. Standard characterization procedures were carried out (i.e., water permeance, contact angle, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy) to gain a deep understanding of the synthesized membrane properties. Dynamic adsorption experiments demonstrated the excellent capability of the synthesized composite membranes to effectively remove EDCs from water. Particularly, among the various target molecules examined, testosterone stands out with the most remarkable enhancement, presenting an adsorption loading of 220 mg m-2. This is an impressive 26-fold increase in the adsorption when compared to the performance of the pristine membrane. Similarly, androst-4-ene-3,17-dione exhibited an 18-fold improvement in adsorption capacity in comparison to the pristine membrane. The composite membranes also exhibited significant adsorption capacities for other key compounds, including 17β-estradiol, equilin, and bisphenol-A. With the implementation of an effective regeneration procedure, the composite membranes were put to use for adsorption over three consecutive cycles without any decline in their adsorption capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Niavarani
- Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering e.V. (IOM) Permoserstrasse 15 04318 Leipzig Germany
| | - Daniel Breite
- Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering e.V. (IOM) Permoserstrasse 15 04318 Leipzig Germany
| | - Berfu Ulutaş
- Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering e.V. (IOM) Permoserstrasse 15 04318 Leipzig Germany
- Department of Chemistry, Middle East Technical University 06800 Ankara Turkey
| | - Andrea Prager
- Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering e.V. (IOM) Permoserstrasse 15 04318 Leipzig Germany
| | - Ömer Kantoğlu
- TENMAK, Nuclear Energy Research Institute Kahramankazan 06980 Ankara Turkey
| | - Bernd Abel
- Institute of Chemical Technology, Universität Leipzig Linnéstraße 3 04103 Leipzig Germany
| | - Roger Gläser
- Institute of Chemical Technology, Universität Leipzig Linnéstraße 3 04103 Leipzig Germany
| | - Agnes Schulze
- Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering e.V. (IOM) Permoserstrasse 15 04318 Leipzig Germany
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14
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Thacharodi A, Hassan S, Acharya G, Vithlani A, Hoang Le Q, Pugazhendhi A. Endocrine disrupting chemicals and their effects on the reproductive health in men. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 236:116825. [PMID: 37544467 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are harmful compounds that enter the environment naturally or through anthropogenic activities and disrupt normal endocrine functions in humans, adversely affecting reproductive health. Among the most significant sources of EDC contaminants are the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and packaging industries. EDCs have been identified to have a deteriorating effect on male reproductive system, as evidenced by the increasing number of male infertility cases. A large number of case studies have been published in which men exposed to EDCs experienced testicular cancer, undescended testicles, a decrease in serum testosterone levels, and poor semen quality. Furthermore, epidemiological evidence suggested a link between prenatal EDC exposure and cryptorchidism or undescended testicles, hypospadias, and decreased anogenital distance in infants. The majority of these findings, however, are incongruent due to the lack of long-term follow-up studies that would demonstrate EDCs to be associated with male reproductive disorders. This review aims to provide an overview on recent scientific progress on the association of EDCs to male reproductive health with special emphasis on its toxicity and possible mechanism of EDCs that disrupt male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswin Thacharodi
- Dr. Thacharodi's Laboratories, Department of Research and Development, Puducherry, 605005, India
| | - Saqib Hassan
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Bio and Chemical Engineering, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600119, India; American Society for Microbiology, Washington, 20036, USA
| | - Gururaj Acharya
- Department of Civil Engineering, NMAM Institute of Technology, NITTE (Deemed to be university), Karnataka, 574110, India
| | - Avadh Vithlani
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Quynh Hoang Le
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam; Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam
| | - Arivalagan Pugazhendhi
- School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam; Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Viet Nam.
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15
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Virtanen HE, Rodprasert W, Toppari J. Deteriorating Semen Quality: The Role of the Environment. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:226-240. [PMID: 38499038 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1782151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena E Virtanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Wiwat Rodprasert
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital-Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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16
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Kaushik A, Metkari SM, Ali S, Bhartiya D. Preventing/Reversing Adverse Effects of Endocrine Disruption on Mouse Testes by Normalizing Tissue Resident VSELs. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2525-2540. [PMID: 37561284 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10601-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive health of men is declining in today's world due to increased developmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). We earlier reported that neonatal exposure to endocrine disruption resulted in reduced numbers of seminiferous tubules in Stage VIII, decreased sperm count, and infertility along with testicular tumors in 65% of diethylstilbestrol (DES) treated mice. Epigenetic changes due to EDCs, pushed the VSELs out of a quiescent state to enter cell cycle and undergo excessive self-renewal while transition of c-KIT- stem cells into c-KIT + germ cells was blocked due to altered MMR axis (Np95, Pcna, Dnmts), global hypomethylation (reduced expression of 5-methylcytosine) and loss of imprinting at Igf2-H19 and Dlk1-Meg3 loci. The present study was undertaken to firstly show similar defects in FACS sorted VSELs from DES treated testis and to further explore the reversal of these testicular pathologies by (i) oral administration of XAR (a nano-formulation of resveratrol) or (ii) inter-tubular transplantation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Similar defects as reported earlier in the testes were evident, based on RNAseq data, on FACS sorted VSELs from DES treated mice. Both strategies were found effective, improved spermatogenesis, increased number of tubules in Stage VIII, normalized numbers of VSELs and c-KIT + cells, improved epigenetic status of VSELs to restore quiescent state, and reduced cancer incidence from 65% after DES to 13.33% and 20% after XAR treatment or MSCs transplantation respectively. Results provide a basis for initiating clinical studies and the study falls under the umbrella of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 to ensure healthy lives and well-being for all of all ages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Kaushik
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - S M Metkari
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Subhan Ali
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India
| | - Deepa Bhartiya
- Stem Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400 012, India.
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Lower Parel, Mumbai, 400 013, India.
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17
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Törzsök P, Oswald D, Dieckmann KP, Angerer M, Scherer LC, Tymoszuk P, Kunz Y, Pinggera GM, Lusuardi L, Horninger W, Pichler R. Subsets of preoperative sex hormones in testicular germ cell cancer: a retrospective multicenter study. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14604. [PMID: 37669975 PMCID: PMC10480169 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41915-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Preoperative homeostasis of sex hormones in testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) patients is scarcely characterized. We aimed to explore regulation of sex hormones and their implications for histopathological parameters and prognosis in TGCT using a data-driven explorative approach. Pre-surgery serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone (T), estradiol (E2) and prolactin were measured in a retrospective multicenter TGCT cohort (n = 518). Clusters of patients were defined by latent class analysis. Clinical, pathologic and survival parameters were compared between the clusters by statistical hypothesis testing, Random Forest modeling and Peto-Peto test. Cancer tissue expression of sex hormone-related genes was explored in the publicly available TCGA cohort (n = 149). We included 354 patients with pure seminoma and 164 patients with non-seminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT), with a median age of 36 years. Three hormonal clusters were defined: 'neutral' (n = 228) with normal sex hormone homeostasis, 'testicle' (n = 91) with elevated T and E2, low pituitary hormones, and finally 'pituitary' subset (n = 103) with increased FSH and LH paralleled by low-to-normal levels of the gonadal hormones. Relapse-free survival in the hormonal subsets was comparable (p = 0.64). Cancer tissue expression of luteinizing hormone- and follicle-stimulating hormone-coding genes was significantly higher in seminomas, while genes of T and E2 biosynthesis enzymes were strongly upregulated in NSGCT. Substantial percentages of TGCT patients are at increased risk of sex hormone dysfunction at primary diagnosis before orchiectomy. TGCT may directly influence systemic hormonal homeostasis by in-situ synthesis of sex hormones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Törzsök
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - David Oswald
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Markus Angerer
- Department of Urology, Hodentumorzentrum, Asklepios Klinik Altona, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lukas Christian Scherer
- Department of Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Innsbruck (CCCI), Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Yannic Kunz
- Department of Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Innsbruck (CCCI), Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Germar-Michael Pinggera
- Department of Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Innsbruck (CCCI), Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Lukas Lusuardi
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Horninger
- Department of Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Innsbruck (CCCI), Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Renate Pichler
- Department of Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center Innsbruck (CCCI), Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
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18
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Guth M, Lefevre M, Pilorget C, Coste A, Ahmadi S, Danjou A, Dananché B, Praud D, Koscinski I, Papaxanthos A, Blagosklonov O, Fauque P, Pérol O, Schüz J, Bujan L, Olsson A, Fervers B, Charbotel B. Parental occupational exposure to solvents and risk of developing testicular germ cell tumors among sons: a French nationwide case-control study (TESTIS study). Scand J Work Environ Health 2023; 49:405-418. [PMID: 37649372 PMCID: PMC10812531 DOI: 10.5271/sjweh.4102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The etiology of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) is suspected to be related to prenatal environmental risk factors. Some solvents have potential endocrine disrupting or carcinogenic properties and may disrupt male genital development in utero. The aim of this study was to examine the association between parental occupational exposure to solvents and TGCT risk among their offspring. METHODS A French nationwide case-control study, TESTIS included 454 TGCT cases and 670 controls frequency-matched on region and 5-year age strata. Participants were interviewed via telephone and provided information on parental occupations at birth. Job-exposure matrices (JEM) developed in the French Matgéné program were used to assign exposure to five petroleum-based solvents, five solvents or groups of oxygenated solvents, and five chlorinated solvents. Odds ratios (OR) for TGCT and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated using conditional logistic regression, adjusting for TGCT risk factors. RESULTS Occupational exposure to at least one solvent during the year of their son's birth was 41% among fathers and 21% among mothers. Paternal exposure to at least one solvent showed OR 0.89 (95% CI 0.68-1.15). Exposure to perchloroethylene (OR 1.41, 95% CI 0.55-3.61), methylene chloride (OR 1.13, 95% CI 0.54-2.34) and diesel/kerosene/fuel oil (OR 1.17, 95% CI 0.80-1.73) disclosed OR >1 but with low precision. Our results suggest a possible modest increase in non-seminoma risk for sons whose fathers were highly exposed to trichloroethylene (OR 1.44, 95% CI 0.79-2.63). Maternal exposure to at least one solvent showed OR 0.90 (95% CI 0.65-1.24). When stratifying by birth year, men born in the 1970s experienced an increased TGCT risk following maternal exposure to fuels and petroleum-based solvents (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.11-6.76). CONCLUSION Overall, no solid association was found between parental occupational exposure to solvents and TGCT risk. The association found with maternal occupational exposure to fuels and petroleum solvents among older men needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Béatrice Fervers
- Prevention Cancer Environnement Departement, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France.
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19
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Ramsay JM, Fendereski K, Horns JJ, VanDerslice JA, Hanson HA, Emery BR, Halpern JA, Aston KI, Ferlic E, Hotaling JM. Environmental exposure to industrial air pollution is associated with decreased male fertility. Fertil Steril 2023; 120:637-647. [PMID: 37196750 PMCID: PMC10526653 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.05.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand how chronic exposure to industrial air pollution is associated with male fertility through semen parameters. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. PATIENTS Men in the Subfertility, Health, and Assisted Reproduction cohort who underwent a semen analysis in the two largest healthcare systems in Utah from 2005-2017 with ≥1 measured semen parameter (N = 21,563). INTERVENTION(S) Residential histories for each man were constructed using locations from administrative records linked through the Utah Population Database. Industrial facilities with air emissions of nine endocrine-disrupting compound chemical classes were identified from the Environmental Protection Agency Risk-Screening Environmental Indicators microdata. Chemical levels were linked with residential histories for the 5 years before each semen analysis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Semen analyses were classified as azoospermic or oligozoospermic (< 15 M/mL) using World Health Organization cutoffs for concentration. Bulk semen parameters such as concentration, total count, ejaculate volume, total motility, total motile count, and total progressive motile count were also measured. Multivariable regression models with robust standard errors were used to associate exposure quartiles for each of the nine chemical classes with each semen parameter, adjusting for age, race, and ethnicity, as well as neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage. RESULTS After adjustment for demographic covariates, several chemical classes were associated with azoospermia and decreased total motility and volume. For exposure in the 4th relative to 1st quartile, significant associations were observed for acrylonitrile (βtotal motility = -0.87 pp), aromatic hydrocarbons (odds ratio [OR]azoospermia = 1.53; βvolume = -0.14 mL), dioxins (ORazoospermia = 1.31; βvolume = -0.09 mL; βtotal motility = -2.65 pp), heavy metals (βtotal motility = -2.78pp), organic solvents (ORazoospermia = 1.75; βvolume = -0.10 mL), organochlorines (ORazoospermia = 2.09; βvolume = -0.12 mL), phthalates (ORazoospermia = 1.44; βvolume = -0.09 mL; βtotal motility = -1.21 pp), and silver particles (ORazoospermia = 1.64; βvolume = -0.11 mL). All semen parameters significantly decreased with increasing socioeconomic disadvantage. Men who lived in the most disadvantaged areas had concentration, volume, and total motility of 6.70 M/mL, 0.13 mL, and 1.79 pp lower, respectively. Count, motile count, and total progressive motile count all decreased by 30-34 M. CONCLUSION(S) Several significant associations between chronic low-level environmental exposure to endocrine-disrupting compound air pollution from industrial sources and semen parameters were observed. The strongest associations were seen for increased odds of azoospermia and declines in total motility and volume. More research is needed to further explore additional social and exposure factors as well as expand on the risk posed to male reproductive health by the studied chemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joemy M Ramsay
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Kiarad Fendereski
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Joshua J Horns
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - James A VanDerslice
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Heidi A Hanson
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Computational Sciences and Engineering Division, Oakridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee
| | - Benjamin R Emery
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Joshua A Halpern
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | | | - James M Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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20
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Houle E, Li Y, Schroder M, McRitchie SL, Rahil T, Sites CK, Sumner SJ, Pilsner JR. Exploring the internal exposome of seminal plasma with semen quality and live birth: A Pilot Study. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2023; 69:296-309. [PMID: 37098216 PMCID: PMC11144350 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2023.2195964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Infertility is clinically defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy within 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse and affects 15% of couples worldwide. Therefore, the identification of novel biomarkers that can accurately predict male reproductive health and couples' reproductive success is of major public health significance. The objective of this pilot study is to test whether untargeted metabolomics is capable of discriminating reproductive outcomes and understand associations between the internal exposome of seminal plasma and the reproductive outcomes of semen quality and live birth among ten participants undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) in Springfield, MA. We hypothesize that seminal plasma offers a novel biological matrix by which untargeted metabolomics is able to discern male reproductive status and predict reproductive success. The internal exposome data was acquired using UHPLC-HR-MS on randomized seminal plasma samples at UNC at Chapel Hill. Unsupervised and supervised multivariate analyses were used to visualize the differentiation of phenotypic groups classified by men with normal or low semen quality based on World Health Organization guidelines as well as by successful ART: live birth or no live birth. Over 100 exogenous metabolites, including environmentally relevant metabolites, ingested food components, drugs and medications, and metabolites relevant to microbiome-xenobiotic interaction, were identified and annotated from the seminal plasma samples, through matching against the NC HHEAR hub in-house experimental standard library. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated that fatty acid biosynthesis and metabolism, vitamin A metabolism, and histidine metabolism were associated sperm quality; while pathways involving vitamin A metabolism, C21-steroid hormone biosynthesis and metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and Omega-3 fatty acid metabolism distinguished live birth groups. Taken together, these pilot results suggest that seminal plasma is a novel matrix to study the influence of the internal exposome on reproductive health outcomes. Future research aims to increase the sample size to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Houle
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, 275 E. Hancock Street, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - YuanYuan Li
- Department of Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, 500 Laureate Way, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health, Kannapolis, NC 28010, USA
| | - Madison Schroder
- Department of Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, 500 Laureate Way, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health, Kannapolis, NC 28010, USA
| | - Susan L McRitchie
- Department of Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, 500 Laureate Way, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health, Kannapolis, NC 28010, USA
| | - Tayyab Rahil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Cynthia K Sites
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Susan Jenkins Sumner
- Department of Nutrition, Nutrition Research Institute, 500 Laureate Way, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Public Health, Kannapolis, NC 28010, USA
| | - J. Richard Pilsner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, 275 E. Hancock Street, Detroit, MI, USA
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21
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Erkudov VO, Rozumbetov KU, González-Fernández FT, Pugovkin AP, Nazhimov II, Matchanov AT, Ceylan Hİ. The Effect of Environmental Disasters on Endocrine Status, Hematology Parameters, Body Composition, and Physical Performance in Young Soccer Players: A Case Study of the Aral Sea Region. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1503. [PMID: 37511878 PMCID: PMC10381241 DOI: 10.3390/life13071503] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Aral Sea region (Uzbekistan) is infamous because of the ecological disaster characterized by the disappearance of the Aral Sea due to excessive uncontrolled water intake for agriculture needs. A new desert occurrence, soil and climate aridization led to pesticide and toxic metals environment pollution. The impact of environmental conditions in some areas of Uzbekistan on the health of soccer players is not as noticeable as, for example, the effectiveness of training, so it is not widely discussed in scientific papers. The aim of the present study was to study the features of endocrine status, hematology parameters (e.g., red blood cells (RBC) and hemoglobin (Hb)), and their influence on body composition and physical fitness performance in local young soccer players of the Aral Sea region as the territory of ecological disaster. The study involved 60 male soccer players aged from 18 to 22 years. Participants were divided into two groups: the experimental group (EG), which consisted of 30 soccer players living on the territory of the Aral ecological disaster region, and the control group (CG), which included 30 soccer players, natives of the ecologically favorable region of Uzbekistan. All volunteers had anthropometric measurements, concentrations of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), total testosterone (TT), estradiol (E2), cortisol (C), RBC, and Hb count. Moreover, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIRT1) and professional skills tests such as dribbling shuttle test (DSt) and goal accuracy test (GAt) were assessed. When comparing the CG group to the EG group, it was observed that the EG group exhibited statistically significantly reduced levels of TT and E2 (p < 0.05). No significant statistical difference was observed between the two groups in terms of IGF-1 and C (p > 0.05). Regarding hematological parameters, Hb, Ht, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were found to be significantly lower in the EG compared with the CG (p < 0.05). Moreover, the distance covered in the YYIR1 test was found to be significantly lower in soccer players within the EG compared with the CG (p < 0.05). Additionally, it was determined that there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of DSt and GAt values (p > 0.05). Lastly, significant differences were observed between the EG and CG in terms of anthropometric characteristics (diameters, skinfold, and somatotype profile) (p < 0.05). The present study showed that the changes in evaluated characteristics might result from the complex influence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, the content of which is high in the environment of the Aral Sea region. The results obtained may help monitor the health of athletes living in an environmentally unfriendly environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerii O Erkudov
- Department of Normal Physiology, St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, 194100 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Kenjabek U Rozumbetov
- Department of General Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Biology, Karakalpak State University, Nukus 230100, Uzbekistan
| | | | - Andrey P Pugovkin
- Department of Biotechnical Systems, Faculty of Information Measurement and Biotechnical Systems, Saint Petersburg Electrotechnical University «LETI», 197022 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ilal I Nazhimov
- Department of General Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Biology, Karakalpak State University, Nukus 230100, Uzbekistan
| | - Azat T Matchanov
- Department of General Biology and Physiology, Faculty of Biology, Karakalpak State University, Nukus 230100, Uzbekistan
| | - Halil İbrahim Ceylan
- Physical Education and Sports Teaching Department, Kazim Karabekir Faculty of Education, Ataturk University, Erzurum 25240, Turkey
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22
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Elcombe CS, Monteiro A, Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei M, Padmanabhan V, Lea R, Sinclair KD, Evans NP, Bellingham M. Developmental exposure to a real-life environmental chemical mixture alters testicular transcription factor expression in neonatal and pre-pubertal rams, with morphological changes persisting into adulthood. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 100:104152. [PMID: 37209889 PMCID: PMC10457458 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2023.104152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Environmental chemical (EC) exposure may be impacting male reproductive health. The translationally relevant biosolids treated pasture (BTP) sheep model was used to investigate gestational low-level EC mixture exposure on the testes of F1 male offspring. Adult rams from ewes exposed to BTP 1 month before and throughout pregnancy had more seminiferous tubules with degeneration and depletion of elongating spermatids, indicating possible "recovery" from previously reported testicular dysgenesis syndrome-like phenotype in neonatal and pre-pubertal BTP lambs. Expression of transcription factors CREB1 (neonatal) and BCL11A and FOXP2 (pre-pubertal) were significantly higher in the BTP exposed testes, with no changes seen in adults. Increased CREB1, which is crucial for testes development and regulation of steroidogenic enzymes, could be an adaptive response to gestational EC exposure to facilitate the phenotypic recovery. Overall, this demonstrates that testicular effects from gestational exposure to low-level mixtures of ECs can last into adulthood, potentially impacting fertility and fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris S Elcombe
- School of Biodiversity, One Health, and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK.
| | - Ana Monteiro
- School of Biodiversity, One Health, and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Mohammad Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei
- School of Biodiversity, One Health, and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Richard Lea
- University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | - Kevin D Sinclair
- University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | - Neil P Evans
- School of Biodiversity, One Health, and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Michelle Bellingham
- School of Biodiversity, One Health, and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK.
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23
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Vivek-Ananth RP, Sahoo AK, Baskaran SP, Ravichandran J, Samal A. Identification of activity cliffs in structure-activity landscape of androgen receptor binding chemicals. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 873:162263. [PMID: 36801331 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Androgen mimicking environmental chemicals can bind to Androgen receptor (AR) and can cause severe effects on the reproductive health of males. Predicting such endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the human exposome is vital for improving current chemical regulations. To this end, QSAR models have been developed to predict androgen binders. However, a continuous structure-activity relationship (SAR) wherein chemicals with similar structure have similar activity does not always hold. Activity landscape analysis can help map the structure-activity landscape and identify unique features such as activity cliffs. Here we performed a systematic investigation of the chemical diversity along with the global and local structure-activity landscape of a curated list of 144 AR binding chemicals. Specifically, we clustered the AR binding chemicals and visualized the associated chemical space. Thereafter, consensus diversity plot was used to assess the global diversity of the chemical space. Subsequently, the structure-activity landscape was investigated using SAS maps which capture the activity difference and structural similarity among the AR binders. This analysis led to a subset of 41 AR binding chemicals forming 86 activity cliffs, of which 14 are activity cliff generators. Additionally, SALI scores were computed for all pairs of AR binding chemicals and the SALI heatmap was also used to evaluate the activity cliffs identified using SAS map. Finally, we provide a classification of the 86 activity cliffs into six categories using structural information of chemicals at different levels. Overall, this investigation reveals the heterogeneous nature of the structure-activity landscape of AR binding chemicals and provides insights which will be crucial in preventing false prediction of chemicals as androgen binders and developing predictive computational toxicity models in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Vivek-Ananth
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai 600113, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Ajaya Kumar Sahoo
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai 600113, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Shanmuga Priya Baskaran
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai 600113, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Janani Ravichandran
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai 600113, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Areejit Samal
- The Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai 600113, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai 400094, India.
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24
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Gozar H, Bara Z, Dicu E, Derzsi Z. Current perspectives in hypospadias research: A scoping review of articles published in 2021 (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 25:211. [PMID: 37090085 PMCID: PMC10119991 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.11910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hundreds of papers are written about hypospadias every year referring to all aspects of the pathology, being one of the most common congenital malformations. The present study conducted a scoping review of articles published in 2021 to present the main issues and summarize current perspectives and achievements in the field. It searched for the keyword 'hypospadias' in the three most popular databases (PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science). After the analysis of the publications, they were categorized into different domains. The present review was performed respecting the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA ScR) guidelines. A total of 284 articles were included. These were published in 142 different journals. The most accessed was the Journal of Paediatric Urology with 54 articles. The main identified domains were related to surgical techniques, postoperative care, complications, anesthesia, anatomical factors, genetics, environmental factors, endocrinology, associated malformations, questionnaires and recommendations, management, biological materials, animal models, retrospective studies of centers, social media, bibliometrics, small gestational age, neoplasm, or fertility. Promising modifications of existing surgical techniques were presented with improved outcomes for both the proximal and distal types of hypospadias. Relevant anatomical and etiological, and also genetic factors were clarified. Aspects of the peri- and postoperative management referring to the antibiotherapy, analgesia, dressing techniques, and the future use of novel bioengineering agents to prevent, reduce or treat the occurring complications were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horea Gozar
- Clinic of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, Târgu Mureș, County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Târgu Mureș 540136, Romania
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, Târgu Mureș 540142, Romania
| | - Zsolt Bara
- Clinic of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, Târgu Mureș, County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Târgu Mureș 540136, Romania
| | - Emilia Dicu
- Clinic of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, Târgu Mureș, County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Târgu Mureș 540136, Romania
| | - Zoltán Derzsi
- Clinic of Pediatric Surgery and Orthopedics, Târgu Mureș, County Emergency Clinical Hospital, Târgu Mureș 540136, Romania
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Târgu Mureș, Târgu Mureș 540142, Romania
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25
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Au A, Mojadadi A, Shao JY, Ahmad G, Witting PK. Physiological Benefits of Novel Selenium Delivery via Nanoparticles. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076068. [PMID: 37047040 PMCID: PMC10094732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076068] [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: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Dietary selenium (Se) intake within the physiological range is critical to maintain various biological functions, including antioxidant defence, redox homeostasis, growth, reproduction, immunity, and thyroid hormone production. Chemical forms of dietary Se are diverse, including organic Se (selenomethionine, selenocysteine, and selenium-methyl-selenocysteine) and inorganic Se (selenate and selenite). Previous studies have largely investigated and compared the health impacts of dietary Se on agricultural stock and humans, where dietary Se has shown various benefits, including enhanced growth performance, immune functions, and nutritional quality of meats, with reduced oxidative stress and inflammation, and finally enhanced thyroid health and fertility in humans. The emergence of nanoparticles presents a novel and innovative technology. Notably, Se in the form of nanoparticles (SeNPs) has lower toxicity, higher bioavailability, lower excretion in animals, and is linked to more powerful and superior biological activities (at a comparable Se dose) than traditional chemical forms of dietary Se. As a result, the development of tailored SeNPs for their use in intensive agriculture and as candidate for therapeutic drugs for human pathologies is now being actively explored. This review highlights the biological impacts of SeNPs on growth and reproductive performances, their role in modulating heat and oxidative stress and inflammation and the varying modes of synthesis of SeNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Au
- Redox Biology Group, Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Albaraa Mojadadi
- Redox Biology Group, Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Jia-Ying Shao
- Redox Biology Group, Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Gulfam Ahmad
- Redox Biology Group, Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Andrology Department, Royal Women's and Children's Pathology, Carlton, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Paul K Witting
- Redox Biology Group, Charles Perkins Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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26
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Thangaraj SV, Kachman M, Halloran KM, Sinclair KD, Lea R, Bellingham M, Evans NP, Padmanabhan V. Developmental programming: Preconceptional and gestational exposure of sheep to a real-life environmental chemical mixture alters maternal metabolome in a fetal sex-specific manner. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 864:161054. [PMID: 36565874 PMCID: PMC10322214 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Everyday, humans are exposed to a mixture of environmental chemicals some of which have endocrine and/or metabolism disrupting actions which may contribute to non-communicable diseases. The adverse health impacts of real-world chemical exposure, characterized by chronic low doses of a mixture of chemicals, are only recently emerging. Biosolids derived from human waste represent the environmental chemical mixtures humans are exposed to in real life. Prior studies in sheep have shown aberrant reproductive and metabolic phenotypes in offspring after maternal biosolids exposure. OBJECTIVE To determine if exposure to biosolids perturbs the maternal metabolic milieu of pregnant ewes, in a fetal sex-specific manner. METHODS Ewes were grazed on inorganic fertilizer (Control) or biosolids-treated pastures (BTP) from before mating and throughout gestation. Plasma from pregnant ewes (Control n = 15, BTP n = 15) obtained mid-gestation were analyzed by untargeted metabolomics. Metabolites were identified using Agilent MassHunter. Multivariate analyses were done using MetaboAnalyst 5.0 and confirmed using SIMCA. RESULTS Univariate and multivariate analysis of 2301 annotated metabolites identified 193 differentially abundant metabolites (DM) between control and BTP sheep. The DM primarily belonged to the super-class of lipids and organic acids. 15-HeTrE, oleamide, methionine, CAR(3:0(OH)) and pyroglutamic acid were the top DM and have been implicated in the regulation of fetal growth and development. Fetal sex further exacerbated differences in metabolite profiles in the BTP group. The organic acids class of metabolites was abundant in animals with male fetuses. Prenol lipid, sphingolipid, glycerolipid, alkaloid, polyketide and benzenoid classes showed fetal sex-specific responses to biosolids. DISCUSSION Our study illustrates that exposure to biosolids significantly alters the maternal metabolome in a fetal sex-specific manner. The altered metabolite profile indicates perturbations to fatty acid, arginine, branched chain amino acid and one‑carbon metabolism. These factors are consistent with, and likely contribute to, the adverse phenotypic outcomes reported in the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- S V Thangaraj
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - M Kachman
- MM BRCF Metabolomics Core, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - K M Halloran
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - K D Sinclair
- University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | - R Lea
- University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | - M Bellingham
- School of Biodiversity One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - N P Evans
- School of Biodiversity One Health and Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - V Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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27
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Protective effects of Korean Red Ginseng against toxicity of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. J Ginseng Res 2023; 47:193-198. [PMID: 36926605 PMCID: PMC10014227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2022.11.007] [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: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Several chemicals have been developed owing to the progression of industrialization, among which endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs; essential for plastic production) are used as plasticizers and flame retardants. Plastics have become an essential element in modern life because they provide convenience, thus increasing EDCs exposure to humans. EDCs cause adverse effects such as deterioration of reproductive function, cancer, and neurological abnormalities by disrupting the endocrine system and hence are classified as "dangerous substances." Additionally, they are toxic to various organs but continue to be used. Therefore, it is necessary to review the contamination status of EDCs, select potentially hazardous substances for management, and monitor the safety standards. In addition, it is necessary to discover substances that can protect against EDC toxicity and conduct active research on the protective effects of these substances. According to recent research, Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) exhibits protective effects against several toxicities caused by EDCs to humans. In this review, the effects of EDCs on the human body and the role of KRG in protection against EDC toxicity are discussed.
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28
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Sheikh IA, Beg MA, Hamoda TAAM, Mandourah HMS, Memili E. Androgen receptor signaling and pyrethroids: Potential male infertility consequences. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1173575. [PMID: 37187621 PMCID: PMC10175798 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1173575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishfaq Ahmad Sheikh
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Ishfaq Ahmad Sheikh,
| | - Mohd Amin Beg
- King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Erdogan Memili
- College of Agriculture and Human Sciences, Prairie View A&M University, Prairie View, TX, United States
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Caporossi L, Viganò P, Paci E, Capanna S, Alteri A, Pigini D, Tranfo G, Papaleo B. A Case-Control Study on the Effects of Plasticizers Exposure on Male Fertility. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:235. [PMID: 36612557 PMCID: PMC9819081 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility is a serious concern for public health, and the possible role of exposure to plasticizers such as phthalates and bisphenol A in contributing to the condition is widely debated. We have herein enrolled 155 infertility cases attending an infertility center and 211 controls (fathers of a spontaneously conceived newborn) to investigate this issue. The urinary levels of seven phthalates and BPA were analyzed through HPLC/MS/MS. All data were statistically elaborated considering information about clinical situation, life habits, occupational activity, and, for cases, semen parameters (volume, sperm concentration, total count of spermatozoa, and sperm motility). Results showed significantly higher urinary concentrations for all the phthalates in cases compared to controls, except for monoethylphthalate and BPA. In total, 90.07% of cases had sperm motility lower than the WHO reference value (2010), while 53.69%, 46.31%, and 16.56% had sperm total number, concentration, and volume, respectively, out of the reference range. Regarding the possible source of exposure, the use of scents seems to be a significant source of DEP (diethylphthalate). When considering occupational settings, industrial workers, dental technicians, artisans, and farmers using chemicals showed higher risk (OR = 2.766, 95% CI 1.236-6.185), particularly in relation to DnBP (di-n-butyl phthalate) and DEHP (di-ethyl-hexyl phthalate) exposure. No clear quantitative correlation between specific plasticizers and sperm parameters could be demonstrated but these findings call for future studies about the risks associated with exposure to their mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Caporossi
- National Institute of Insurance against Accidents at Work-Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Paci
- National Institute of Insurance against Accidents at Work-Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Italy
| | - Silvia Capanna
- National Institute of Insurance against Accidents at Work-Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Italy
| | - Alessandra Alteri
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132 Milan, Italy
| | - Daniela Pigini
- National Institute of Insurance against Accidents at Work-Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Italy
| | - Giovanna Tranfo
- National Institute of Insurance against Accidents at Work-Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Italy
| | - Bruno Papaleo
- National Institute of Insurance against Accidents at Work-Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, 00078 Monte Porzio Catone, Italy
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30
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Zhou X, Zhang X, Zhou X, Abulimiti G, Wang Y, Zhang Q, Cong R, Ji C, Luan J, Yao L, Yang J, Song N. Identification of endocrine-disrupting chemicals targeting the genes and pathways of genital anomalies in males. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 247:114241. [PMID: 36308879 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Hypospadias and cryptorchidism are the most common congenital malformations in male neonates, both of which are also the important clinical manifestations of testicular dysgenesis syndrome and share a same origin. Many studies have suggested that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is associated with hypospadias and cryptorchidism development. However, the consistent mechanisms remain unclear. To identify the key EDCs, genes and biological networks related to the development of hypospadias and cryptorchidism respectively and commonly, we conduct the present study and found a new method for predicting the correlation between the interactive genes of hypospadias/cryptorchidism and chemicals. Transcriptome profiles were obtained from the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways enrichment analyses and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were applied for integrative analyses. The rat model and molecular docking were applied to furtherly verifying the findings of the integrative analyses. Besides the highly related genes, most enriched pathways and chemicals for hypospadias and cryptorchidism respectively, we found hypospadias and cryptorchidism share many same highly associated EDCs (e.g., dibutyl phthalate) and genes (e.g., androgen receptor and estrogen receptor 1) through comparing highly related chemicals or genes of hypospadias and cryptorchidism respectively. GO and KEGG analysis showed that these same interactive genes were mainly enriched in steroidogenesis, response to steroid hormone and nuclear receptor activity. PPI network analysis identified 15 biological hub genes. Furtherly, hypospadias and cryptorchidism were induced by prenatal dibutyl phthalate exposure. Decreased serum testosterone level, downregulation of nuclear androgen-dependent and upregulation of cytoplasmic estrogen-dependent pathways may lead to hypospadias and cryptorchidism. This study proposed a new method for predicting the correlation between the interactive genes of hypospadias/cryptorchidism and chemicals and found that hypospadias and cryptorchidism share many same highly associated EDCs and genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhou
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China; The Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture People's Hospital, Artux, Xinjiang 845350, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China
| | - Xuan Zhou
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China; The Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture People's Hospital, Artux, Xinjiang 845350, China
| | - Gulinuer Abulimiti
- Department of Translational Medicine, The Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture People's Hospital, Artux, Xinjiang 845350, China
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China
| | - Qijie Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China
| | - Rong Cong
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China
| | - Chengjian Ji
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China
| | - Jiaochen Luan
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China
| | - Liangyu Yao
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China; The Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture People's Hospital, Artux, Xinjiang 845350, China.
| | - Ninghong Song
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, No. 300, Guangzhou Street, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210029, China; The Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture People's Hospital, Artux, Xinjiang 845350, China.
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31
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Martin L, Zhang Y, First O, Mustieles V, Dodson R, Rosa G, Coburn-Sanderson A, Adams CD, Messerlian C. Lifestyle interventions to reduce endocrine-disrupting phthalate and phenol exposures among reproductive age men and women: A review and future steps. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 170:107576. [PMID: 36283156 PMCID: PMC9890927 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Non-persistent endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including phthalates and phenols, are ubiquitous in both the environment and human body. A growing body of epidemiologic studies have identified concerning links between EDCs and adverse reproductive and developmental health effects. Despite consistent evidence, risk assessments and policy interventions often arrive late. This presents an urgent need to identify evidence-based interventions for implementation at both clinical and community levels to reduce EDC exposure, especially in susceptible populations. The reproductive life cycle (menarche to menopause for females and after pubertal onset for males) includes some of the most vulnerable periods to environmental exposures, such as the preconception and perinatal stages, representing a key window of opportunity to intervene and prevent unfavorable health outcomes. This review aims to synthesize and assess behavioral, dietary, and residential EDC-driven interventions to develop recommendations for subsequent, larger-scale studies that address knowledge-gaps in current interventions during the reproductive life cycle. We selected 21 primary interventions for evaluation, in addition to four supplemental interventions. Among these, accessible (web-based) educational resources, targeted replacement of (known) toxic products, and personalization of the intervention through meetings and support groups, were the most promising strategies for reducing EDC concentrations. However, we document a paucity of interventions to prevent phthalate and phenol exposures during the reproductive years, especially among men. Accordingly, we recommend additional, larger clinical and community-based intervention studies to reduce EDC exposure. Specifically, future intervention studies should focus on short-term, mid-, and long-term exposure reduction to phthalates and phenols. The latter, especially, is required for the development of clinical and public health guidelines to promote reproductive and developmental health globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Martin
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Heath, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Heath, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Olivia First
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Heath, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vicente Mustieles
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Heath, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Gabriela Rosa
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ayanna Coburn-Sanderson
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charleen D Adams
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carmen Messerlian
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Heath, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Boston, MA, USA.
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da Costa Nunes Gomes AC, Bellin CS, da Silva Dias S, de Queiroz de Rosa T, Araújo MP, Miraglia SM, Mendes TB, Vendramini V. Increased sperm DNA damage leads to poor embryo quality and subfertility of male rats treated with methylphenidate hydrochloride in adolescence. Andrology 2022; 10:1632-1643. [PMID: 36029003 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13277] [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: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylphenidate hydrochloride (MPH) is a psychostimulant widely used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), as well as a performance enhancer, for at least 60 years. Despite the notable effectiveness as a psychostimulant, ADHD is a chronic disorder and has a two-third chance of accompanying the individual throughout life. Long-term use of MPH has been associated not only with an increase in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, but it also has side effects on male fertility in experimental animals. OBJECTIVES To investigate whether methylphenidate poses a risk to sperm DNA structure and to the quality of embryos conceived after treatment during adolescence in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Wistar rats at 38 days of age were treated either with 5 mg/kg body weight of MPH, in a single daily dose for 30 days, via gavage or with distilled water-only protocol. Levels of oxidative stress in testicular and epididymal tissues were evaluated. Sperm chromatin quality and acrosome integrity was assessed under flow cytometry. From 107 days of age, animals were mated with untreated females. The effects of the paternal contribution at two different embryo development moments - cleavage stage (2.5 days post coitum) and late gestation (20 days post coitum) - were analyzed. RESULTS MPH caused high levels of sperm DNA damage, which was reflected in 40% of decrease in early embryo quality and a lower number of live pups at 20 dpc. DISCUSSION The high level of fragmentation seen in the embryos sired from the MPH group is consistent with the poor chromatin structure of the sperm, and does not seem to be a result of oxidative stress in the reproductive tissues. CONCLUSIONS The results presented here suggest that the subchronic use of MPH during male prepubertal phase may cause long term subfertility and compromise embryo survival. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Clara da Costa Nunes Gomes
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Souza Bellin
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Paulista School of Nursing, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPE/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Stephanie da Silva Dias
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Paulista School of Nursing, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPE/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thalita de Queiroz de Rosa
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Paulista School of Nursing, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPE/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marina Pereira Araújo
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Paulista School of Nursing, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPE/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Maria Miraglia
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Talita Biude Mendes
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Vendramini
- Department of Morphology and Genetics, Laboratory of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (LabReD), Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of Sao Paulo - EPM/UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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33
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Elcombe CS, Monteiro A, Elcombe MR, Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei M, Sinclair KD, Lea R, Padmanabhan V, Evans NP, Bellingham M. Developmental exposure to real-life environmental chemical mixture programs a testicular dysgenesis syndrome-like phenotype in prepubertal lambs. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2022; 94:103913. [PMID: 35738462 PMCID: PMC9554787 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2022.103913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Current declines in male reproductive health may, in part, be driven by anthropogenic environmental chemical (EC) exposure. Using a biosolids treated pasture (BTP) sheep model, this study examined the effects of gestational exposure to a translationally relevant EC mixture. Testes of 8-week-old ram lambs from mothers exposed to BTP during pregnancy contained fewer germ cells and had a greater proportion of Sertoli-cell-only seminiferous tubules. This concurs with previous published data from fetuses and neonatal lambs from mothers exposed to BTP. Comparison between the testicular transcriptome of biosolids lambs and human testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS) patients indicated common changes in genes involved in apoptotic and mTOR signalling. Gene expression data and immunohistochemistry indicated increased HIF1α activation and nuclear localisation in Leydig cells of BTP exposed animals. As HIF1α is reported to disrupt testosterone synthesis, these results provide a potential mechanism for the pathogenesis of this testicular phenotype, and TDS in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris S Elcombe
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK; School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK.
| | - Ana Monteiro
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Matthew R Elcombe
- MicroMatrices Associates Ltd, Dundee Technopole, James Lindsay Place, Dundee, UK
| | - Mohammad Ghasemzadeh-Hasankolaei
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Kevin D Sinclair
- University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | - Richard Lea
- University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK
| | | | - Neil P Evans
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Michelle Bellingham
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, UK.
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34
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Carlo G, Valentina M, Daniele C, Simone S, Edlira S, Giancarlo B, Benedetto GA. The environmental and occupational influence of pesticides on male fertility: a systematic review of human studies. Andrology 2022; 10:1250-1271. [PMID: 35793270 PMCID: PMC9541307 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environment plays a key role in male infertility, changing the incidence in various populations, and pesticides are one of the most studied hazards. The use of the latter has never decreased, jeopardizing the safety of workers and the general population. OBJECTIVE Our purpose was to summarize the results of studies discussing the association between pesticides and male fertility. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was performed through MEDLINE via PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Only human studies were considered. Semen parameters, and DNA integrity were considered to evaluate the effect of pesticides on men. RESULTS A total of 64 studies that investigated their impact in terms of semen parameters (51 studies), chromatin and DNA integrity (25 studies), were included. The most frequently affected parameters were total sperm count sperm motility and morphology, although a reduction in ejaculate volume and concentration occur in several cases. A tangible worsening of semen quality was associated with organochlorines and organophosphates. Furthermore, pesticide exposure, especially pyrethroids, was related to a higher DNA fragmentation index and chromosome aneuploidy in most articles. CONCLUSION The epidemiological evidence supports the association between pesticides and male fertility for workers and the exposed population in terms of semen quality, DNA fragmentation and chromosome aneuploidy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulioni Carlo
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region", Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Maurizi Valentina
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Ospedali Riuniti" University Hospital, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Ancona, Italy
| | - Castellani Daniele
- "Ospedali Riuniti" University Hospital, Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Scarcella Simone
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region", Department of Urology, Ancona, Italy
| | - Skrami Edlira
- "Polytechnic University of Marche Region", Centre of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Ancona, Italy
| | - Balercia Giancarlo
- "Ospedali Riuniti" University Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Ancona, Italy
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35
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Moralia MA, Quignon C, Simonneaux M, Simonneaux V. Environmental disruption of reproductive rhythms. Front Neuroendocrinol 2022; 66:100990. [PMID: 35227765 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2022.100990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Reproduction is a key biological function requiring a precise synchronization with annual and daily cues to cope with environmental fluctuations. Therefore, humans and animals have developed well-conserved photoneuroendocrine pathways to integrate and process daily and seasonal light signals within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. However, in the past century, industrialization and the modern 24/7 human lifestyle have imposed detrimental changes in natural habitats and rhythms of life. Indeed, exposure to an excessive amount of artificial light at inappropriate timing because of shift work and nocturnal urban lighting, as well as the ubiquitous environmental contamination by endocrine-disrupting chemicals, threaten the integrity of the daily and seasonal timing of biological functions. Here, we review recent epidemiological, field and experimental studies to discuss how light and chemical pollution of the environment can disrupt reproductive rhythms by interfering with the photoneuroendocrine timing system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Azélie Moralia
- Université de Strasbourg, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
| | - Clarisse Quignon
- Université de Strasbourg, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marine Simonneaux
- Université de Strasbourg, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valérie Simonneaux
- Université de Strasbourg, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Strasbourg, France.
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Svingen T, Schwartz CL, Rosenmai AK, Ramhøj L, Johansson HKL, Hass U, Draskau MK, Davidsen N, Christiansen S, Ballegaard ASR, Axelstad M. Using alternative test methods to predict endocrine disruption and reproductive adverse outcomes: do we have enough knowledge? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 304:119242. [PMID: 35378198 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are a matter of great concern. They are ubiquitous in the environment, are considered harmful to humans and wildlife, yet remain challenging to identify based on current international test guidelines and regulatory frameworks. For a compound to be identified as an EDC within the EU regulatory system, a plausible link between an endocrine mode-of-action and an adverse effect outcome in an intact organism must be established. This requires in-depth knowledge about molecular pathways regulating normal development and function in animals and humans in order to elucidate causes for disease. Although our knowledge about the role of the endocrine system in animal development and function is substantial, it remains challenging to predict endocrine-related disease outcomes in intact animals based on non-animal test data. A main reason for this is that our knowledge about mechanism-of-action are still lacking for essential causal components, coupled with the sizeable challenge of mimicking the complex multi-organ endocrine system by methodological reductionism. Herein, we highlight this challenge by drawing examples from male reproductive toxicity, which is an area that has been at the forefront of EDC research since its inception. We discuss the importance of increased focus on characterizing mechanism-of-action for EDC-induced adverse health effects. This is so we can design more robust and reliable testing strategies using non-animal test methods for predictive toxicology; both to improve chemical risk assessment in general, but also to allow for considerable reduction and replacement of animal experiments in chemicals testing of the 21st Century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terje Svingen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark.
| | | | | | - Louise Ramhøj
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | | | - Ulla Hass
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Monica Kam Draskau
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Nichlas Davidsen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | - Sofie Christiansen
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
| | | | - Marta Axelstad
- National Food Institute, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, DK-2800, Denmark
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Wang Q, Wang XX, Xie JF, Yao TT, Xu LL, Wang LS, Yu Y, Xu LC. Cypermethrin inhibits proliferation of Sertoli cells through AR involving DAB2IP/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in vitro. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2022; 11:583-591. [DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfac037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Cypermethrin (CP) exhibits anti-androgenic effects through antagonism on androgen receptor (AR) activation. This study was to identify whether AR-mediated disabled 2 interacting protein (DAB2IP)/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) pathway was involved in CP-induced mouse Sertoli cells (TM4) proliferation disorder. Real-Time Cell Analysis-iCELLigence system was to measure cell proliferation. Bioinformatic analyses were performed to identify AR-regulated genes. Quantitative Real-Time PCR and western blot were to detect the genes and proteins levels in AR-mediated DAB2IP/PI3K/AKT pathway. Results showed CP suppressed TM4 proliferation and the expression of AR. Activation of AR restored the inhibition efficacy of CP on TM4 proliferation. AR regulated DAB2IP expression and phosphorylation levels of PI3K and AKT in CP-exposed TM4 cells. In addition, knockdown of DAB2IP alleviated the inhibition efficacy of CP on cell proliferation and phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT. Taken together, AR was a modulator in CP-induced inhibition of Sertoli cells proliferation by negatively regulating DAB2IP/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The study may provide a new insight for the mechanisms of male reproductive toxicity induced by CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
| | - Xu-Xu Wang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
| | - Jia-Fei Xie
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
| | - Ting-Ting Yao
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
| | - Lin-Lin Xu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
| | - Lu-Shan Wang
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
| | - Yue Yu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
| | - Li-Chun Xu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University , 209 Tong-Shan Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University , Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004 , China
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O’Donnell L, Whiley PAF, Loveland KL. Activin A and Sertoli Cells: Key to Fetal Testis Steroidogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:898876. [PMID: 35685219 PMCID: PMC9171382 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.898876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The long-standing knowledge that Sertoli cells determine fetal testosterone production levels is not widespread, despite being first reported over a decade ago in studies of mice. Hence any ongoing use of testosterone as a marker of Leydig cell function in fetal testes is inappropriate. By interrogating new scRNAseq data from human fetal testes, we demonstrate this situation is also likely to be true in humans. This has implications for understanding how disruptions to either or both Leydig and Sertoli cells during the in utero masculinization programming window may contribute to the increasing incidence of hypospadias, cryptorchidism, testicular germ cell tumours and adult infertility. We recently discovered that activin A levels directly govern androgen production in mouse Sertoli cells, because the enzymes that drive the conversion of the precursor androgen androstenedione to generate testosterone are produced exclusively in Sertoli cells in response to activin A. This minireview addresses the implications of this growing understanding of how in utero exposures affect fetal masculinization for future research on reproductive health, including during programming windows that may ultimately be relevant for organ development in males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza O’Donnell
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Penny A. F. Whiley
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kate L. Loveland,
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Wang Y, Qin M, Fan L, Gong C. Correlation Analysis of Genotypes and Phenotypes in Chinese Male Pediatric Patients With Congenital Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:846801. [PMID: 35669683 PMCID: PMC9164197 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.846801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) can be divided into Kallmann syndrome (KS) and normosmic HH (nHH). The clinical and genetic characteristics of CHH have been studied in adults, but less in pre-adults. The medical records of patients with CHH in our gonad disease database from 2008 to 2020 were evaluated. In total, 125 patients aged 0 to 18 years were enrolled in our study. KS patients had a higher incidence of micropenis compared with nHH (86.2% vs. 65.8%, p=0.009), and 7 patients (5.6%) had hypospadias. Among the 39 patients with traceable family history, delayed puberty, KS/nHH, and olfactory abnormalities accounted for 56.4%, 17.9%, and 15.4%, respectively. In total, 65 patients completed the hCG prolongation test after undergoing the standard hCG test, and the testosterone levels of 24 patients (22.9%) were still lower than 100 ng/dL. In 77 patients, 25 CHH-related genes were identified, including digenic and trigenic mutations in 23 and 3 patients, respectively. The proportion of oligogenic mutations was significantly higher than that in our previous study (27.7% vs. 9.8%). The most common pathogenic genes were FGFR1, PROKR2, CHD7 and ANOS1. The incidence rate of the genes named above was 21.3%, 18.1%, 12.8% and 11.7%, respectively; all were higher than those in adults (<10%). Most mutations in CHH probands were private, except for W178S in PROKR2, V560I in ANOS1, H63D in HS6ST1, and P191L and S671L in IL17RD. By analyzing family history and genes, we found that both PROKR2 and KISS1R may also be shared between constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP) and CHH. L173R of PROKR2 accounts for 40% of the CHH population in Europe and the United States; W178S of PROKR2 accounts for 58.8% of Chinese CHH patients. Micropenis and cryptorchidism are important cues for CHH in children. They are more common in pediatric patients than in adult patients. It is not rare of Leydig cell dysfunction (dual CHH), neither of oligogenic mutations diagnosed CHH in children. Both PROKR2 and KISS1R maybe the potential shared pathogenic genes of CDGP and CHH, and W178S in PROKR2 may be a founder mutation in Chinese CHH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, National Center for Children’s Health, Beijing, China
| | - Miao Qin
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, National Center for Children’s Health, Beijing, China
| | - Lijun Fan
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, National Center for Children’s Health, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiu Gong
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Genetics and Metabolism, National Center for Children’s Health, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Chunxiu Gong,
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Holmboe SA, Scheutz Henriksen L, Frederiksen H, Andersson AM, Priskorn L, Jørgensen N, Juul A, Toppari J, Skakkebæk NE, Main KM. Prenatal exposure to phenols and benzophenones in relation to markers of male reproductive function in adulthood. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1071761. [PMID: 36568115 PMCID: PMC9780366 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1071761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Environmental exposure during fetal life may disrupt testicular development. In humans, a limited number of studies have investigated whether these adverse effects persist into adulthood. Using data from a prospective, population-based birth cohort study, The Copenhagen Mother-Child cohort, the objective was to assess if there is an association between fetal exposure to selected phenols and benzophenones and markers of testicular function in adult men. METHODS Pregnant women were recruited in 1997-2001. Their sons were examined clinically at 18-20 years of age, with focus on adult markers of reproductive function (anogenital distance (AGD), semen quality and reproductive hormones). In total, 101 18-20-year-old men were included, whose mothers during pregnancy had a serum sample drawn and analyzed for bisphenol A (BPA) and seven other simple phenols, as well as six benzophenones. To investigate the association between chemical levels (in tertiles, T1-T3) in relation to markers of reproductive function, univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed. RESULTS In fully adjusted analyses, increased levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) were observed with higher fetal exposure to BPA (percentage difference (95%CI)) (T2: 12% (-8%,36%) and T3: 33% (10%,62%), compared to T1) and benzophenone-3 (BP-3) (T2: 21% (-2%,49%), T3: 18% (-4%,45%)), while no clear association was seen to total testosterone (TT). Higher levels of BPA and BP-3 were associated with a lower TT/LH ratio, although only significant for BPA (p-trend=0.01). No associations were seen to AGD or markers of semen quality. CONCLUSION In conclusion, high exposure to BPA and BP-3 was associated with a compensated reduced Leydig cell function but no other changes in markers of reproductive health. As maternal levels of BPA and BP-3 were not correlated, separate effects may be at play. Larger studies on long-term reproductive consequences of prenatal exposures are warranted to validate our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine A. Holmboe
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- *Correspondence: Stine A. Holmboe,
| | - Louise Scheutz Henriksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Frederiksen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Paediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Niels E. Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katharina M. Main
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Pool KR, Chazal F, Smith JT, Blache D. Estrogenic Pastures: A Source of Endocrine Disruption in Sheep Reproduction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:880861. [PMID: 35574027 PMCID: PMC9097266 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.880861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Phytoestrogens can impact on reproductive health due to their structural similarity to estradiol. Initially identified in sheep consuming estrogenic pasture, phytoestrogens are known to influence reproductive capacity in numerous species. Estrogenic pastures continue to persist in sheep production systems, yet there has been little headway in our understanding of the underlying mechanisms that link phytoestrogens with compromised reproduction in sheep. Here we review the known and postulated actions of phytoestrogens on reproduction, with particular focus on competitive binding with nuclear and non-nuclear estrogen receptors, modifications to the epigenome, and the downstream impacts on normal physiological function. The review examines the evidence that phytoestrogens cause reproductive dysfunction in both the sexes, and that outcomes depend on the developmental period when an individual is exposed to phytoestrogen.
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Abstract
Cryptorchidism, i.e., undescended testis, is one of the most common genital malformations in newborn male babies. The birth rate of cryptorchidism varies from 1.6 to 9.0 %. Etiology of disrupted testicular descent is complex and predisposing causes include genetic, hormonal, environmental, lifestyle and maternal factors. Testicular descent occurs in two major steps and testicular hormones and normal function of hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis are important for normal descent. Several gene mutations are associated with syndromic cryptorchidism but they are rarely found in boys with isolated undescended testis. Testicular regression can also cause an empty scrotum. Normal male genital phenotype indicates that the boy has had functioning testis during development. Torsion of the testis can cause testicular regression but in many cases the reason for vanishing testis remains elusive. In this narrative review we discuss genetics of cryptorchidism and testicular regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi P Elamo
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
| | - Helena E Virtanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, 20520 Turku, Finland; Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
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