Perfluoroalkyl Chemicals and Male Reproductive Health: Do PFOA and PFOS Increase Risk for Male Infertility?

Sex and obesity influence the relationship between perfluoroalkyl substances and lean body mass: NHANES 2011-2018

Objective

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are known endocrine disruptors, that have been the subject of limited research regarding their impact on human lean body mass. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of PFAS exposure on lean body mass.

Methods

We performed a cross-sectional data analysis involving 1022 adolescents and 3274 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018, whose lean body mass was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The lean mass index (LMI) was calculated as lean body mass dividing by the square of height. The association between PFAS and LMI was examined through a multivariate-adjusted weighted generalized linear model. Moreover, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression models were employed to futher examine the relationship between the mixture of PFAS and LMI.

Results

Regression analyses revealed an inverse correlation between PFAS exposure and LMI after adjusting for potential covariates. Adults with higher serum PFAS concentrations manifested a reduction in whole LMI ( β  = -0.193, 95 % confidence interval (CI): -0.325 to -0.06). Notably, this correlation was particularly significant in adult females and individuals with obesity, and it was observed across diverse anatomical regions, including lower limbs, right arm, trunk, and whole lean body mass. In adult females, the association between PFAS and whole LMI was statistically significant ( β  = -0.294, 95 % CI: -0.495 to -0.094), and a similar trend was found in obese individuals ( β  = -0.512, 95 % CI: -0.762 to -0.261). WQS regression analyses supported the results obtained from weighted linear regression analyses.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that exposure to PFAS, whether individually or in combination, is associated with decreased lean body mass in specific body areas, with sex and obesity serving as major influencing factors.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances as persistent pollutants with metabolic and endocrine-disrupting impacts

The widespread use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), and their resistance to degradation, renders human exposure to them inevitable. PFAS exposure disturbs endocrine function, potentially affecting cognitive development in newborns through thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy. Recent studies reveal varying male and female reproductive toxicity across PFAS classes, with alternative analogs affecting sperm parameters and legacy PFASs correlating with conditions like endometriosis. Metabolically, PFASs exposure is linked to metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), dyslipidemia, and liver toxicity, particularly in early childhood. This review focuses on the endocrine-disrupting impact of PFASs, particularly on fertility, thyroid, and metabolic functions. We highlight the complexity of the PFAS issue, given the large number of molecules and their extremely diverse mixed effects.

Perfluorooctane sulfonate-induced Sertoli cell injury through c-Jun N-terminal kinase: a study by RNA-Seq

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a family of "forever chemicals" including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). These toxic chemicals do not break down in the environment or in our bodies. In the human body, PFOS and perfluoroctanoic acid (PFOA) have a half-life (T1/2) of about 4-5 yr so low daily consumption of these chemicals can accumulate in the human body to a harmful level over a long period. Although the use of PFOS in consumer products was banned in the United States in 2022/2023, this forever chemical remains detectable in our tap water and food products. Every American tested has a high level of PFAS in their blood (https://cleanwater.org/pfas-forever-chemicals). In this report, we used a Sertoli cell blood-testis barrier (BTB) model with primary Sertoli cells cultured in vitro with an established functional tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier that mimicked the BTB in vivo. Treatment of Sertoli cells with PFOS was found to perturb the TJ-barrier, which was the result of cytoskeletal disruption across the cell cytoplasm, disrupting actin and microtubule polymerization. These changes thus affected the proper localization of BTB-associated proteins at the BTB. Using RNA-Seq transcriptome profiling, bioinformatics analysis, and pertinent biochemical and cell biology techniques, it was discovered that PFOS -induced Sertoli cell toxicity through the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK; also known as stress-activated protein kinase, SAPK) and its phosphorylated/active form p-JNK signaling pathway. More importantly, KB-R7943 mesylate (KB), a JNK/p-JNK activator, was capable of blocking PFOS-induced Sertoli cell injury, supporting the notion that PFOS-induced cell injury can possibly be therapeutically managed.NEW & NOTEWORTHY PFOS induces Sertoli cell injury, including disruption of the 1) blood-testis barrier function and 2) cytoskeletal organization, which, in turn, impedes male reproductive function. These changes are mediated by JNK/p-JNK signaling pathway. However, the use of KB-R7943, a JNK/p-JNK activator was capable of blocking PFOS-induced Sertoli cell injury, supporting the possibility of therapeutically managing PFOS-induced reproductive dysfunction.

Large-Scale Screening of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance Binding Interactions and Their Mixtures with Nuclear Receptors

Despite their significant impact, comprehensive screenings and detailed analyses of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) binding strengths at the orthosteric and allosteric sites of NRs are currently lacking. This study addresses this gap by focusing on the binding interaction analysis of both common and uncommon PFAS with the nuclear receptors (NRs) vitamin D receptor (VDR), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), pregnane X receptor (PXR), and estrogen receptor alpha (ERα). Advanced docking simulations were used to screen 9507 PFAS chemicals at the orthosteric and allosteric sites of PPARγ, PXR, VDR, and ERα. All receptors exhibited strong binding interactions at the orthosteric and allosteric site with a significant number of PFAS. We verified the accuracy of the docking protocol through multiple docking controls and validations. A mixture modeling analysis indicates that PFAS can bind in various combinations with themselves and endogenous ligands simultaneously, to disrupt the endocrine system and cause carcinogenic responses. These findings reveal that PFAS can interfere with nuclear receptor activity by displacing endogenous or native ligands by binding to the orthosteric and allosteric sites. The purpose of this study is to explore the mechanisms through which PFAS exert their endocrine-disrupting effects, potentially leading to more targeted therapeutic strategies. Importantly, this study is the first to explore the binding of PFAS at allosteric sites and to model PFAS mixtures at nuclear receptors. Given the high concentration and persistence of PFAS in humans, this study further emphasizes the urgent need for further research into the carcinogenic mechanisms of PFAS and the development of therapeutic strategies that target nuclear receptors.

Preferential Partitioning of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Dissolved Organic Matter in Freshwater Surface Microlayer and Natural Foam

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are surfactants that can accumulate in the surface microlayer (SML) and in natural foams, with potential elevated exposure for organisms at the water surface. However, the impact of water chemistry on PFAS accumulation in these matrices in freshwater systems is unknown. We quantified 36 PFAS in water, the SML, and natural foams from 43 rivers and lakes in Wisconsin, USA, alongside measurements of pH, cations, and dissolved organic carbon (DOC). PFAS partition to foams with concentration ranging 2300-328,200 ng/L in waters with 6-139 ng/L PFAS (sum of 36 analytes), corresponding to sodium-normalized enrichment factors ranging <50 to >7000. Similar enrichment is observed for DOC (∼70). PFAS partitioning to foams increases with increasing chain length and is positively correlated with [DOC]. Modest SML enrichment is observed for PFOS (1.4) and FOSA (2.4), while negligible enrichment is observed for other PFAS and DOC due to low specific surface area and turbulent conditions that inhibit surfactant accumulation. However, DOC composition in the SML is distinct from bulk water, as assessed using high-resolution mass spectrometry. This study demonstrates that natural foams in unimpacted and impacted waters can have elevated PFAS concentrations, whereas SML accumulation in surface waters is limited.

Unveiling the intricate connection between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and prostate hyperplasia

The presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in various everyday products has raised concerns about their potential impact on prostate health. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different types of PFAS on prostate health, including PFDeA, PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, and PFNA. To assess the relationship between PFAS exposure and prostate injury, machine learning algorithms were employed to analyze prostate-specific antigen (PSA) metrics. The analysis revealed a linear and positive dose-dependent association between PFOS and the ratio of free PSA to total PSA (f/tPSA). Non-linear dose-response relationships were observed between the other four types of PFAS and the f/tPSA ratio. Additionally, the analysis showed a positive association between the mixture of PFAS and prostate hyperplasia, with PFNA having the highest impact followed by PFOS. These findings suggest that elevated serum levels of PFDeA, PFOA, PFOS, and PFNA are linked to prostate hyperplasia. Therefore, this study utilized advanced machine learning techniques to uncover potential hazardous effects of PFAS exposure on prostate health, specifically the positive association between PFAS and prostate hyperplasia.

How Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances Affect Gamete Viability and Fertilization Capability: Insights from the Literature

There has been emerging research linking per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to gamete viability and fertility. PFAS, prevalent in the environment and water supplies, undergo slow degradation due to their C-F bond and a long half-life (2.3-8.5 years). In females, PFAS inhibit the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, reducing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, leading to the inhibition of androgen and estradiol production. PFAS have been found to cause detrimental effects on egg quality through impairing folliculogenesis. In males, PFAS can impair sperm motility and morphology: two fundamental qualities of successful fertilization. PFAS exposure has been proven to inhibit testosterone production, sperm capacitation, and acrosomal reaction. After fertilization, the results of PFAS exposure to embryos have also been investigated, showing reduced development to the blastocyst stage. The aim of this review is to report the main findings in the literature on the impact of PFAS exposure to gamete competency and fertilization capability by highlighting key studies on both male and female fertility. We report that there is significant evidence demonstrating the negative impacts on fertility after PFAS exposure. At high doses, these environmentally abundant and widespread compounds can significantly affect human fertility.

PFAS in Nigeria: Identifying data gaps that hinder assessments of ecotoxicological and human health impacts

This review examines the extensive use and environmental consequences of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) on a global scale, specifically emphasizing their potential impact in Nigeria. Recognized for their resistance to water and oil, PFAS are under increased scrutiny for their persistent nature and possible ecotoxicological risks. Here, we consolidate existing knowledge on the ecological and human health effects of PFAS in Nigeria, focusing on their neurological effects and the risks they pose to immune system health. We seek to balance the advantages of PFAS with their potential ecological and health hazards, thereby enhancing understanding of PFAS management in Nigeria and advocating for more effective policy interventions and the creation of safer alternatives. The review concludes with several recommendations: strengthening regulatory frameworks, intensifying research into the ecological and health impacts of PFAS, developing new methodologies and longitudinal studies, fostering collaborative efforts for PFAS management, and promoting public awareness and education to support sustainable environmental practices and healthier communities in Nigeria.

Mixtures of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) alter sperm methylation and long-term reprogramming of offspring liver and fat transcriptome

Male fertility has been declining worldwide especially in countries with high levels of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl Substances (PFAS) have been classified as EDCs and have been linked to adverse male reproductive health. The mechanisms of these associations and their implications on offspring health remain unknown. The aims of the current study were to assess the effect of PFAS mixtures on the sperm methylome and transcriptional changes in offspring metabolic tissues (i.e., liver and fat). C57BL/6 male mice were exposed to a mixture of PFAS (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS, Genx; 20 µg/L each) for 18-weeks or water as a control. Genome-wide methylation was assessed on F0 epidydimal sperm using reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) and Illumina mouse methylation array, while gene expression was assessed by bulk RNA sequencing in 8-week-old offspring derived from unexposed females. PFAS mixtures resulted in 2,861 (RRBS) and 83 (Illumina) sperm DMRs (q < 0.05). Functional enrichment revealed that PFAS-induced sperm DMRs were associated with behavior and developmental pathways in RRBS, while Illumina DMRs were related to lipid metabolism and cell signaling. Additionally, PFAS mixtures resulted in 40 and 53 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the liver and fat of males, and 9 and 31 DEGs in females, respectively. Functional enrichment of DEGs revealed alterations in cholesterol metabolism and mitotic cell cycle regulation in the liver and myeloid leukocyte migration in fat of male offspring, while in female offspring, erythrocyte development and carbohydrate catabolism were affected in fat. Our results demonstrate that exposure to a mixture of legacy and newly emerging PFAS chemicals in adult male mice result in aberrant sperm methylation and altered gene expression of offspring liver and fat in a sex-specific manner. These data indicate that preconception PFAS exposure in males can be transmitted to affect phenotype in the next generation.

Perfluorooctanoic acid induces Leydig cell injury via inhibition of autophagosomes formation and activation of endoplasmic reticulum stress

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a man-made chemical broadly distributed in various ecological environment and human bodies, which poses potential health risks. Its toxicity, especially the male reproduction toxicity has drawn increasing attention due to declining birth rates in recent years. However, how PFOA induces male reproductive toxicity remains unclear. Here, we characterize PFOA-induced cell injury and reveal the underlying mechanism in mouse Leydig cells, which are critical to spermatogenesis in the testes. We show that PFOA induces cell injury as evidenced by reduced cell viability, cell morphology changes and apoptosis induction. RNA-sequencing analysis reveals that PFOA-induced cell injury is correlated with compromised autophagy and activated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, two conserved biological processes required for regulating cellular homeostasis. Mechanistic analysis shows that PFOA inhibits autophagosomes formation, and activation of autophagy rescues PFOA-induced apoptosis. Additionally, PFOA activates ER stress, and pharmacological inhibition of ER stress attenuates PFOA-induced cell injury. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PFOA induces cell injury through inhibition of autophagosomes formation and induction of ER stress in Leydig cells. Thus, our study sheds light on the cellular mechanisms of PFOA-induced Leydig cell injury, which may be suggestive to human male reproductive health risk assessment and prevention from PFOA exposure-induced reproductive toxicity.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances inhibit human and rat 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1: Quantitative structure-activity relationship and molecular docking analysis

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances are enduring industrial materials. 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase isoform 1 (17β-HSD1) is an estrogen metabolizing enzyme, which transforms estrone into estradiol in human placenta and rat ovary. Whether PFAS inhibit 17β-HSD1 and what the structure-activity relationship (SAR) remains unexplored. We screened 18 PFAS for inhibiting human and rat 17β-HSD1 in microsomes and studied their SAR and mode of action(MOA). Of the 11 perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs), C8-C14 PFCAs at a concentration of 100 μM substantially inhibited human 17β-HSD1, with order of C11 (half-maximal inhibition concentration, IC50, 8.94 μM) > C10 (10.52 μM) > C12 (14.90 μM) > C13 (30.97 μM) > C9 (43.20 μM) > C14 (44.83 μM) > C8 (73.38 μM) > others. Of the 7 per- and poly-fluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs), the potency was C8S (IC50, 14.93 μM) > C7S (80.70 μM) > C6S (177.80 μM) > others. Of the PFCAs, C8-C14 PFCAs at 100 μM markedly reduced rat 17β-HSD1 activity, with order of C11 (IC50, 9.11 μM) > C12 (14.30 μM) > C10 (18.24 μM) > C13 (25.61 μM) > C9 (67.96 μM) > C8 (204.39 μM) > others. Of the PFSAs, the potency was C8S (IC50, 37.19 μM) > C7S (49.38 μM) > others. In contrast to PFOS (C6S), the partially fluorinated compound 6:2 FTS with an equivalent number of carbon atoms demonstrated no inhibition of human and rat 17β-HSD1 activity at a concentration of 100 μM. The inhibition of human and rat enzymes by PFAS followed a V-shaped trend from C4 to C14, with a nadir at C11. Moreover, human 17β-HSD1 was more sensitive than rat enzyme. PFAS inhibited human and rat 17β-HSD1 in a mixed mode. Docking analysis revealed that they bind to the NADPH and steroid binding site of both 17β-HSD1 enzymes. The 3D quantitative SAR (3D-QSAR) showed that hydrophobic region, hydrogen bond acceptor and donor are key factors in binding to 17β-HSD1 active sites. In conclusion, PFAS exhibit inhibitory effects on human and rat 17β-HSD1 depending on factors such as carbon chain length, degree of fluorination, and the presence of carboxylic acid or sulfonic acid groups, with a notable V-shaped shift observed at C11.

Emergence of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and advances in the remediation strategies

A group of fluorinated organic molecules known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been commonly produced and circulated in the environment. PFAS, owing to multiple strong CF bonds, exhibit exceptional stability and possess a high level of resistance against biological or chemical degradation. Recently, PFAS have been identified to cause numerous hazardous effects on the biotic ecosystem. As a result, extensive efforts have been made in recent years to develop effective methods to remove PFAS. Adsorption, filtration, heat treatment, chemical oxidation/reduction, and soil washing are a few of the physicochemical techniques that have shown their ability to remove PFAS from contaminated matrixes. However these methods also carry significant drawbacks, including the fact that they are expensive, energy-intensive, unsuitable for in-situ treatment, and requirement to be carried under dormant conditions. The metabolic products released upon PFAS degradation are largely unknown, despite the fact that thermal disintegration methods are widely used. In contrast to physical and chemical methods, biological degradation of PFAS has been regarded as efficient method. However, PFAS are difficult to instantly and completely metabolize through biological methods due to the limitations of biocatalytic mechanisms. Nevertheless, cost, easy-to-operate and environmentally safe are some of the advantages over its counterpart. The present review comprehensively discusses the occurrence of PFAS, the state-of-the science of remediation technologies and approaches applied, and the remediation challenges. The article also focuses on the future research directions toward the development of effective methods for PFAS-contaminated site in-situ treatment.

Prediction of the Interactions of a Large Number of Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances with Ten Nuclear Receptors

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are persistent, toxic chemicals that pose significant hazards to human health and the environment. Screening large numbers of chemicals for their ability to act as endocrine disruptors by modulating the activity of nuclear receptors (NRs) is challenging because of the time and cost of in vitro and in vivo experiments. For this reason, we need computational approaches to screen these chemicals and quickly prioritize them for further testing. Here, we utilized molecular modeling and machine-learning predictions to identify potential interactions between 4545 PFASs with ten different NRs. The results show that some PFASs can bind strongly to several receptors. Further, PFASs that bind to different receptors can have very different structures spread throughout the chemical space. Biological validation of these in silico findings should be a high priority.

Perturbation of IP3R-dependent endoplasmic reticulum calcium homeostasis by PPARδ-activated metabolic stress leads to mouse spermatocyte apoptosis: A direct mechanism for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid-induced spermatogenic disorders

Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) as an archetypal representative of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is ubiquitously distributed in the environment and extensively detected in human bodies. Although accumulating evidence is suggestive of the deleterious effects of PFOS on male reproduction, the direct toxicity of PFOS towards spermatogenic cells and the relevant mechanisms remain poorly understood. The aims of the present study were to explore the direct effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of PFOS on spermatogenesis. Through integrating animal study, transcriptome profiling, in silico toxicological approaches, and in vitro validation study, we identified the molecular initiating event and key events contributing to PFOS-induced spermatogenic impairments. The mouse experiments revealed that spermatocytes were involved in PFOS-induced spermatogenic disorders and the activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARδ) was linked to spermatocyte loss in PFOS-administrated mice. GC-2spd(ts) cells were treated with an increased gradient of PFOS, which was relevant to environmental and occupational exposure levels of PFOS in populations. Following 72-h treatment, cells was harvested for RNA sequencing. The transcriptome profiling and benchmark dose (BMD) modeling identified endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress as the key event for PFOS-mediated spermatocyte apoptosis and determined the point-of-departure (PoD) for perturbations of ER stress signaling. Based on the calculated PoD value, further bioinformatics analyses combined with in vitro and in vivo validations showed that PFOS caused metabolic stress by activating PPARδ in mouse spermatocytes, which was responsible for Beclin 1-involved inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) sensitization. The disruption of IP3R-mediated ER calcium homeostasis triggered ER calcium depletion, leading to ER stress and apoptosis in mouse spermatocytes exposed to PFOS. This study systematically investigated the direct impacts of PFOS on spermatogenesis and unveiled the relevant molecular mechanism of PFOS-induced spermatogenic disorders, providing novel insights and potential preventive/therapeutic targets for PFAS-associated male reproductive toxicity.

GenX Disturbs the Indicators of Hepatic Lipid Metabolism Even at Environmental Concentration in Drinking Water via PPARα Signaling Pathways

Hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA; trade name GenX), as a substitute for perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), has been attracting increasing attention. However, its impact and corresponding mechanism on hepatic lipid metabolism are less understood. To investigate the possible mechanisms of GenX for hepatotoxicity, a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted. In in vivo experiment, male mice were exposed to GenX in drinking water at environmental concentrations (0.1 and 10 μg/L) and high concentrations (1 and 100 mg/L) for 14 weeks. In in vitro experiments, human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) were exposed to GenX at 10, 160, and 640 μM for 24 and 48 h. GenX exposure via drinking water resulted in liver damage and disruption of lipid metabolism even at environmental concentrations. The results of triglycerides (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) in this study converged with the results of the population study, for which TG increased in the liver but unchanged in the serum, whereas TC increased in both liver and serum concentrations. KEGG and GO analyses revealed that the hepatotoxicity of GenX was associated with fatty acid transport, synthesis, and oxidation pathways and that Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor (PPARα) contributed significantly to this process. PPARα inhibitors significantly reduced the expression of CD36, CPT1β, PPARα, SLC27A1, ACOX1, lipid droplets, and TC, suggesting that GenX exerts its toxic effects through PPARα signaling pathway. In general, GenX at environmental concentrations in drinking water causes abnormal lipid metabolism via PPARα signaling pathway.

Rutin ameliorate PFOA induced renal damage by reducing oxidative stress and improving lipid metabolism

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a persistent environmental pollutant that can accumulate in the kidneys and eventually cause kidney damage. Rutin (RUTIN) is a natural flavonoid with multiple biological activities, and its use in against kidney damage has been widely studied in recent years. It is not yet known whether rutin protects against kidney damage caused by PFOA. In this study, 30 ICR mice were randomly divided into three groups: CTRL group, PFOA group and PFOA+RUTIN group. The mice were fed continuously by gavage for 28 days. Renal pathological changes were assessed by HE and PASM staining, and serum renal function and lipid indicators were measured. RNA-seq and enrichment analysis using GO, KEGG and PPI to detect differential expression of genes in treatment groups. Kidney tissue protein expression was determined by Western blot. Research has shown that rutin can improve glomerular and tubular structural damage, and increase serum CREA, HDL-C levels and decrease LDH, LDL-C levels. The expression of AQP1 and ACOT1 was up-regulated after rutin treatment. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that PFOA and rutin affect the transcriptional expression of genes related to lipid metabolism and oxidative stress, and may affected by PI3K-Akt, PPAR, NRF2/KEAP1 signaling pathways. In conclusion, rutin ameliorated renal damage caused by PFOA exposure, and this protective effect may be exerted by ameliorating oxidative stress and regulating lipid metabolism.

Perfluorooctanoic acid suppresses sperm functions via abnormal Protein Kinase B activation during capacitation

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a perfluorinated compound, a synthesized chemical, and has been used in several industrial products for more than 70 years. Although PFOA is known to exert toxic effects in normal cells, there is no detailed information on its reproductive toxicity and its effects on sperm functions related to protein kinase B (AKT). Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the effects of PFOA on sperm functions via AKT. Boar spermatozoa were incubated with different concentrations of PFOA (0, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μM) to induce capacitation. Sperm functions (sperm motility, motion kinematic parameters, capacitation status, cell viability, and intracellular ATP levels) were evaluated. In addition, the expression levels of AKT, phospho-AKT, phospho-PKA, and tyrosine phosphorylated proteins were evaluated by western blotting. Results showed significant decreases in sperm motility and motion kinematic parameters. PFOA treatment significant suppressed spermatozoa capacitation and intracellular ATP levels. Furthermore, it significantly decreased the levels of phospho-PKA and tyrosine phosphorylated proteins. The levels of AKT phosphorylation at Thr308 and Ser473 also significantly decreased. These findings suggest that PFOA diminishes sperm functions during capacitation and induces unnatural phosphorylation in AKT, leading to reproductive toxicity. Therefore, people should be aware of reproductive toxicity when using PFOA.

Determination of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) in the Indoor Dust Matter of the Sicily (Italy) Area: Analysis and Exposure Evaluations

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in environmental matrices is increasingly being studied due to its environmental persistence, global occurrence, bioaccumulation, and associated human health risks. Some indoor environments can significantly impact the health of occupants due to pollutants in indoor air and household dust. To investigate the potential exposure of individuals to PFOA in specific confined environments, this study reports an analytical method and results concerning the determination of PFOA in household dust, used as a passive sampler. To the best of our knowledge, this paper represents one of the first studies concerning PFOA concentrations in indoor dust collected in the south of Italy, within the European region. A total of twenty-three dust samples were collected from two different areas of Sicily (Palermo and Milena), extracted, and analyzed by an UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS system. Finally, PFOA exposure was estimated using a new index (Indoor PFOA Exposure Index, IPEX) that incorporates the PFOA levels in dust, exposure time, and the correlation between the PFOA in dust and blood. It was then compared across four different exposure groups, revealing that PFOA exposure for people working in chemistry laboratories was evaluated to be ten times higher than the exposure for homemakers.

Associations of Prenatal Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS) Exposures with Offspring Adiposity and Body Composition at 16-20 Years of Age: Project Viva

BACKGROUND

Findings on the associations between prenatal PFAS exposures and offspring adiposity are inconsistent. Whether such associations may extend to adolescence is especially understudied.

OBJECTIVES

We investigated associations of prenatal PFAS exposures with offspring adiposity and body composition at 16-20 years of age.

METHODS

We studied 545 mother-child pairs in the prospective prebirth cohort Project Viva (Boston, Massachusetts). We measured six PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, EtFOSAA, and MeFOSAA) in maternal early pregnancy (median age = 9.6 wk , range: 5.7-19.6 wk) plasma samples. At the late adolescence visit (median age = 17.4 y, range: 15.9-20.0 y), we obtained anthropometric measures and assessed body composition using bioelectrical impedance analysis and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. We examined associations of individual PFAS with obesity [i.e., age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI) ≥ 95 th percentile] and adiposity and body composition using multivariable Poisson and linear regression models, respectively. We assessed PFAS mixture effects using Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) and quantile g-computation. We used fractional-polynomial models to assess BMI trajectories (at 3-20 years of age) by prenatal PFAS levels.

RESULTS

Thirteen percent (n = 73 ) of the children had obesity in late adolescence. After multivariable adjustment, higher prenatal PFAS concentrations were associated with higher obesity risk [e.g., 1.59 (95% CI: 1.19, 2.12), 1.24 (95% CI: 0.98, 1.57), and 1.49 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.99) times the obesity risk per doubling of PFOS, PFOA, and PFNA, respectively]. BKMR showed an interaction between PFOA and PFOS, where the positive association between PFOS and obesity was stronger when PFOA levels were lower. Each quartile increment of the PFAS mixture was associated with 1.52 (95% CI: 1.03, 2.25) times the obesity risk and 0.52 (95% CI: - 0.02 , 1.06) kg / m 2 higher BMI. Children with higher prenatal PFOS, EtFOSAA, and MeFOSAA concentrations had higher rates of BMI increase starting from 9-11 years of age.

DISCUSSION

Prenatal PFAS exposures may have obesogenic effects into late adolescence. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP12597.

Organic anion transporting polypeptide 3a1 is a novel influx pump for Perfluorooctane sulfonate in Sertoli cells and contributes to its reproductive toxicity

Persistent organic pollutant perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is strongly associated with male reproductive disorders, but the related mechanisms are still not fully understood. In this study, we used in vivo and in vitro models to explore the role of organic anion transporting polypeptide 3a1 (Oatp3a1) on PFOS-induced male reproductive injury. Thirty male C57BL/6 (B6) mice were orally given PFOS (0-10 mg/kg/bw) for 28 days. Body weight, organ index, sperm count, histology, and blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity were evaluated. Primary Sertoli cells were used to describe the related molecular mechanisms of male reproductive injury caused by PFOS. Our results showed that PFOS induced a decrease in sperm count, morphological damage to testicular Sertoli cells, and disruption of BTB. In the in vitro model, exposure to PFOS significantly increased Oatp3a1 mRNA and protein levels and decreased miR-23a-3p expression in Sertoli cells, accompanied by reduced trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) value. By performing the 14C-PFOS uptake experiment, we showed that 14C-PFOS uptake in HEK293-Oatp3a1 cells was apparently higher than in HEK293-MOCK cells. Meanwhile, treating Sertoli cells with Oatp3a1 siRNA significantly decreased Oatp3a1 expression and rescued PFOS-induced decreases in TEER value. As such, the present study highlights that Oatp3a1 may play an important role in the toxic effect of PFOS on Sertoli cells, advancing our understanding of molecular mechanisms for PFOS-induced male reproductive disorders.

Impact of endocrine disruptors on peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro: role of gender

Humans can be exposed to endocrine disruptors (EDs) in numerous ways. EDs can interfere with endogenous hormones at different levels, resulting in numerous adverse human health outcomes, including immunotoxicity. In this regard, this study aimed to investigate in vitro the possible effects of EDs on immune cells and possible gender differences. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy humans, both males and females, were exposed to 6 different EDs, namely atrazine (herbicide), cypermethrin (insecticide), diethyl phthalate (plasticizer), 17α-ethynylestradiol (contraceptive drug), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (persistent organic pollutant), and vinclozolin (fungicide). We evaluated the effect of EDs on RACK1 (receptor for activated C kinase 1) expression, considering it as a bridge between the endocrine and the immune system, and putatively used as screening tool of immunotoxic effects of EDs. The exposure to EDs resulted at different extent in alteration in RACK1 expression, pro-inflammatory activity, natural killer lytic ability, and lymphocyte differentiation, with sex-related differences. In particular, diethyl phthalate and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid resulted the most active EDs tested, with gender differences in terms of effects and magnitude. The results from our study evidenced the ability of EDs to directly affect immune cells.

Exposure of Lemna minor (Common Duckweed) to Mixtures of Uranium and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)

A variety of processes, both natural and anthropogenic, can have a negative impact on surface waters, which in turn can be detrimental to human and environmental health. Few studies have considered the ecotoxicological impacts of concurrently occurring contaminants, and that is particularly true for mixtures that include contaminants of emerging concern (CEC). Motivated by this knowledge gap, the present study considers the potential ecotoxicity of environmentally relevant contaminants in the representative aquatic plant Lemna minor (common duckweed), a model organism. More specifically, biological effects associated with exposure of L. minor to a ubiquitous radionuclide (uranium [U]) and a fluorinated organic compound (perfluorooctanoic acid [PFOA], considered a CEC), alone and in combination, were monitored under controlled laboratory conditions. Lemna minor was grown for 5 days in small, aerated containers. Each treatment consisted of four replicates with seven plants each. Treatments were 0, 0.3, and 3 ppb PFOA; 0, 0.5, and 5 ppb U; and combinations of these. Plants were observed daily for frond number and signs of chlorosis and necrosis. Other biological endpoints examined at the conclusion of the experiment were chlorophyll content and antioxidant capacity. In single-exposure experiments, a slight stimulatory effect was observed on frond number at 0.3 ppb PFOA, whereas both concentrations of U had a detrimental effect on frond number. In the dual-exposure experiment, the combinations with 5 ppb U also had a detrimental effect on frond number. Results for chlorophyll content and antioxidant capacity were less meaningful, suggesting that environmentally relevant concentrations of PFOA and U have only subtle effects on L. minor growth and health status. Environ Toxicol Chem 2023;42:2412-2421. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.

Carbon chain length of perfluoroalkylated carboxylic acids determines inhibitory strength on gonadal 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in humans, rats, and mice

Perfluoroalkylated carboxylic acids (PFCAs) are a subclass of man-made chemicals that have been widely used in industrial production and consumer products. As a result, PFCAs have been found to accumulate in the environment and bioaccumulate in organisms, leading to potential health and environmental impacts. This study investigated the inhibition of 11 PFCAs on gonadal 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in humans, rats, and mice. We observed a V-shaped inhibition pattern against human granulosa (KGN) cell 3β-HSD2 starting from C9 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration, IC50, 100.8 μM) to C11 (8.92 μM), with a V-shaped turn. The same V-shaped inhibition pattern was also observed for PFCAs against rat testicular 3β-HSD1 from C9 (IC50, 50.43 μM) to C11 (6.60 μM). Mouse gonadal 3β-HSD6 was insensitive to the inhibition of PFCAs, with an IC50 of 50.43 μM for C11. All of these PFCAs were mixed inhibitors of gonadal 3β-HSDs. Docking analysis showed that PFCAs bind to the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)/steroid binding sites of these enzymes and bivariate correlation analysis showed that molecular length determines the inhibitory pattern of PFCAs on these enzymes. In conclusion, the carbon chain length determines the inhibitory strength of PFCAs on human, rat, and mouse gonadal 3β-HSDs, and the inhibitory strength of PFCAs against human and rat 3β-HSD enzymes shows V-shaped turn.

Implications of circular textile policies for the future regulation of hazardous substances in textiles in the European Union

The textile industry's business model is currently unsustainable and systemic changes must be made. The transition to a circular textile economy can be a major lever for this. However, it faces multiple issues, including the (in)ability of current legislations to provide sufficient protection regarding hazardous chemicals in recirculating materials. It is therefore crucial to identify legislative gaps that prevent the implementation of a safe circular textile economy, and to identify which chemicals could jeopardize this process. With this study, we aim to identify hazardous substances that could be found in recirculated textiles, to identify and discuss gaps in current regulations covering chemicals in textiles, and to suggest solutions to ensure better safety of circular textiles. We compile and analyze data on 715 chemicals and their associated functions, textile production stage, and hazard data. We also present how chemicals have been regulated over time and discuss regulations' strengths and weaknesses in the perspective of circular economy. We finally discuss the recently proposed Ecodesign regulation, and which key point should be included in the future delegated acts. We found that most of the compiled chemicals present at least one recognized or suspected hazard. Among them, there were 228 CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic substances), 25 endocrine disruptors, 322 skin allergens or sensitizers, and 51 respiratory allergens or sensitizers. 30 chemicals completely or partially lack hazard data. 41 chemicals were found to present a risk for consumers, among which 15 recognized or suspected CMR and 36 recognized or suspected allergens/sensitizers. Following the analysis of regulations, we argue that an improved risk assessment of chemicals should consider chemicals specific hazardous properties and product's multiple life cycles, instead of being limited to the product's end-of-life stage. We especially argue that implementing a safe circular textile economy requires that chemicals of concern are eliminated from the market.

Perfluoroundecanoic acid induces DNA damage, reproductive and pathophysiological dysfunctions via oxidative stress in male Swiss mice

Perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnA) is an eleven carbon-chain compound that belongs to the perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid family. It has been detected in the human blood, effluents, and surface/ground waters, but its toxic effects to the DNA and reproductive system remain unclear. This study was aimed at exploring the toxicity of PFUnA on the hepatic DNA, organ-system and reproductive system in orally treated male Swiss mice. In this present study, administration of PFUnA for 28 days with five doses (0.1, 0.3, 05, 0.7 and 1.0 mg kg-1 b.w./d) in male Swiss mice induced significant hepatic DNA damage which was observed using the alkaline comet assay and equally altered hematological and clinical biochemical parameters. In addition to testicular atrophy, sperm count and sperm motility significantly decreased while sperm abnormalities increased after 35 days exposure. Serum LH and FSH levels were remarkably increased while serum testosterone levels were strikingly reduced. Histopathology revealed the liver, kidney, and testis as potential targets of PFUnA toxicity. Increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as levels of glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and reduced glutathione (GSH), with consistent reduction of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in the liver and testis induced oxidative stress. In conclusion, PFUnA exhibited both genotoxicity and reproductive toxicity via oxidative stress induction.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in consumable species and food products

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of thousands of manmade chemicals widely used in consumer products and industrial processes. Toxicological studies have suggested that exposure to PFASs may lead to several adverse effects, including infertility and cancer development. In light of their widespread use, the contamination of food products has created health concerns in sites directly influenced by industrial and anthropogenic activity. In the present contribution, the current knowledge of PFAS contamination was systematically reviewed in order to provide with the knowledge gaps and main sources of contamination, as well as critically evaluate estimated dietary intake and relative risk values of the consulted studies. Legacy PFASs remain the most abundant despite their production restrictions. Edible species from freshwater bodies exhibit higher PFAS concentrations than marine species, probably due to low hydrodynamics and dilution in lentic ecosystems. Studies in food products from multiple sources, including aquatic, livestock, and agricultural, agree that the proximity to factories and fluorochemical industries rendered significantly higher and potentially hazardous PFAS contamination. Short-chain PFAS are suggested as chemicals of emerging concern to food security. However, the environmental and toxicological implications of short-chain congeners are not fully understood and, thus, much research is needed in this sense.

Optimizing preconception care and interventions for improved population health

There is growing literature indicating that optimal preconception health is associated with improved reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric outcomes. Given that preconception care is recommended for all individuals planning a pregnancy, medical providers and public health practitioners have a unique opportunity to optimize care and improve health outcomes for reproductive-aged individuals. Knowledge of the determinants of preconception health is important for all types of health professionals, including policy makers. Although some evidence-based recommendations have already been implemented, additional research is needed to identify factors associated with favorable health outcomes and to ensure that effective interventions are made in a timely fashion. Given the largely clinical readership of this journal, this piece is primarily focused on clinical care. However, we acknowledge that optimizing preconception health for the entire population at risk of pregnancy requires broadening our strategies to include population-health interventions that consider the larger social systems, structures, and policies that shape individual health outcomes.

PPARα/ACOX1 as a novel target for hepatic lipid metabolism disorders induced by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances: An integrated approach

BACKGROUND

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent and ubiquitous environmental contaminants with well-documented hepatotoxicity. However, the mechanistic linkage between PFAS exposure and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains largely elusive.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to explore PFAS-to-NAFLD link and the relevant molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

The cross-sectional analyses using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data were conducted to investigate the association between PFAS exposure and NAFLD. A combination of in silico toxicological analyses, bioinformatics approaches, animal experiments, and in vitro assays was used to explore the molecular initiating events (MIEs) and key events (KEs) in PFAS-induced hepatic lipid metabolism disorders.

RESULTS

The cross-sectional analyses with NHANES data revealed the significant association between PFAS exposure and hepatic steatosis/NAFLD. The in silico toxicological analyses showed that PPARα activation induced by perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), prototypical representatives of PFAS, is the critical MIE associated with NAFLD-predominant liver diseases. Transcriptome-based bioinformatic annotation and analyses identified that transcriptional upregulation of hepatic acyl-CoA oxidase 1 (ACOX1) in PPARα-regulated peroxisomal β-oxidation pathway was the KE involved with PFOA/PFOS-perturbed hepatic lipid metabolic pathways in humans, mice and rats. The in vivo and in vitro assays further verified that ACOX1-mediated oxidative stress contributed to mitochondrial compromise and lipid accumulation in PFOA/PFOS-exposed mouse hepatocytes, which could be mitigated by co-treatment with ACOX1 inhibitor and mitochondria ROS scavenger. Additionally, we observed that besides PFOA and PFOS, hepatic ACOX1 exhibited good-fit response to short-term exposures of long-chain (C7-C10) perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFHpA, PFNA, PFDA) and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (PFHpS, PFDS) in human hepatocyte spheroids through benchmark dose (BMD) modeling.

CONCLUSION

Our study unveils a novel molecular target for PFAS-induced hepatic lipid metabolic disorders, shedding new light on prediction, assessment, and mitigation of PFAS hepatotoxicity.

PFAS soil concentrations surrounding a hazardous waste incinerator in East Liverpool, Ohio, an environmental justice community

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of synthetic compounds widely used in industrial and consumer products. While PFAS provide product durability, these chemicals are ubiquitous, persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic. These characteristics make the ultimate disposal of PFAS a challenge. One current disposal method is incineration; however, little research has been conducted on the safety and effectiveness of PFAS incineration. The characteristics of communities with hazardous waste incinerators that have received PFAS shipments indicate that more individuals with lower incomes and individuals with less education than the US average are at higher risk of exposure, which presents important environmental justice and health equity concerns of PFAS incineration. Situated in eastern Ohio, East Liverpool is an Appalachian community that is home to a large hazardous-waste incinerator, operated by Heritage WTI, that began accepting PFAS in 2019. Residents are concerned that the disposal lacks the research necessary to assure safety for the residents. Due to both community interest and data gaps regarding PFAS incineration, our research team conducted a pilot study to examine the distribution and concentration of PFAS in soil samples surrounding the incinerator. All 35 soil samples had measurable amounts of PFAS including perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS), perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (HFPO-DA)/GenX. PFOS was measured in the majority of soil samples (97%) with a range of 50-8,300 ng/kg. PFOA was measured in 94% of soil samples with a range of 51 ng/kg to 1300 ng/kg. HFPO-DA/GenX was measurable in 12 soil samples with concentrations of ranging from 150 ng/kg to 1500 ng/kg. Further research on PFAS disposal will advance knowledge and action related to regulatory requirements and exposure prevention, ultimately improving individual and community protections and health equity.

Putative adverse outcome pathways of the male reproductive toxicity derived from toxicological studies of perfluoroalkyl acids

Adverse outcome pathway (AOP) as a conceptual framework is a powerful tool in the field of toxicology to connect seemingly discrete events at different levels of biological organizations into an organized pathway from molecular interactions to whole organism toxicity. Based on numerous toxicological studies, eight AOPs for reproductive toxicity have been endorsed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Task Force on Hazard Assessment. We have conducted a literature survey on the mechanistic studies on male reproductive toxicity of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), a class of global environmental contaminants with high persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity. Using the AOP development strategy, five new AOPs for male reproductive toxicity were proposed here, namely (1) changes in membrane permeability leading to reduced sperm motility, (2) disruption of mitochondrial function leading to sperm apoptosis, (3) decreased gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) expression in hypothalamus leading to reduced testosterone production in male rats, (4) activation of the p38 signaling pathway leading to disruption of BTB in mice, (5) inhibition of p-FAK-Tyr407 activity leading to the destruction of BTB. The molecular initiating events in the proposed AOPs are different from those in the endorsed AOPs, which are either receptor activation or enzyme inhibition. Although some of the AOPs are still incomplete, they can serve as a building block upon which full AOPs can be developed and applied to not only PFAAs but also other chemical toxicants with male reproductive toxicity.

Perfluorooctanoic acid in the sediment matrices of Arctic fjords, Svalbard

Per- and polyfluorinated chemicals (PFASs) are very toxic industrial compounds, and fewer studies have been conducted on their presence in the sedimentary environment of the polar region. The present study is a preliminary assessment of the concentration and distribution of PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) in selected fjord systems of the Svalbard archipelago, Norwegian Arctic. The ∑PFOA observed for Smeerenburgfjorden, Krossfjorden, Kongsfjorden Hotmiltonbuktafjorden, Raudfjorden and Magdalenefjorden were 1.28 ng/g, 0.14 ng/g, 0.68 ng/g, 6.54 ng/g, 0.41 ng/g and BDL respectively. Of the twenty-three fjord samples studied, the sediments from Hotmiltonbuktafjorden exhibited the presence of a higher concentration of PFOA in the sediment matrices. More studies are needed to understand their fate in the sedimentary environment with respect to the physio-chemical properties of the sediments.

An Exploratory Analysis of Firefighter Reproduction through Survey Data and Biomonitoring

Firefighters are occupationally exposed to chemicals that may affect fertility. To investigate this effect, firefighters were recruited to contribute blood, urine, breast milk or semen samples to (1) evaluate chemical concentrations and semen parameters against fertility standards and the general population; (2) assess correlations between chemical concentrations and demographics, fire exposure and reproductive history; and (3) consider how occupational exposures may affect reproduction. A total of 774 firefighters completed the online survey, and 97 firefighters produced 125 urine samples, 113 plasma samples, 46 breast milk samples and 23 semen samples. Blood, urine and breast milk samples were analysed for chemical concentrations (semivolatile organic compounds, volatile organic compounds, metals). Semen samples were analysed for quality (volume, count, motility, morphology). Firefighter semen parameters were below WHO reference values across multiple parameters. Self-reported rates of miscarriage were higher than the general population (22% vs. 12-15%) and in line with prior firefighter studies. Estimated daily intake for infants was above reference values for multiple chemicals in breast milk. More frequent fire incident exposure (more than once per fortnight), longer duration of employment (≥15 years) or not always using a breathing apparatus demonstrated significantly higher concentrations across a range of investigated chemicals. Findings of this study warrant further research surrounding the risk occupational exposure has on reproduction.

Perfluorooctanoic acid induces cell death in TM3 cells via the ER stress-mitochondrial apoptosis pathway

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is an environmentally ubiquitous synthetic chemical highly persistent in organisms. PFOA exposure is pernicious to reproductive health as indicated by reports of male infertility. However, the PFOA toxicity mechanism to Leydig cells remains poorly understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the toxicological events occurring in TM3 Leydig cells treated with PFOA (250, 500, 750µM) for 24h. PFOA was shown to significantly decrease cell viability resulting from inhibition of proliferation and elevation of apoptotic ratio in a dose dependent manner. Upregulation of pro-apoptotic gene expressions such as Bax, Bad, and p53, was observed in combination with an increase in the apoptosis-related protein levels of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-8, and phosphorylated p53. Furthermore, exposure of PFOA lead to mitochondrial damage involving mitochondrial membrane permeabilization. A release of cytochrome c and collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψm) were observed compared to the untreated control. Additionally, PFOA stimulated unfolded protein response (UPR) upregulating ER stress marker, Bip/GRP78, and upregulated protein levels of UPR signal molecules IRE1, p-JNK, p-ERK1/2, p-p53, CHOP, and ERO1. Overall, the present study elucidated the ER stress-mitochondrial apoptosis pathway-related molecular mechanisms involved in PFOA-induced cell death in TM3 Leydig cells.

Does contaminant exposure disrupt maternal hormones deposition? A study on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in an Arctic seabird

Maternal effects are thought to be essential tools for females to modulate offspring development. The selective deposition of avian maternal hormones could therefore allow females to strategically adjust the phenotype of their offspring to the environmental situation encountered. However, at the time of egg formation, several contaminants are also transferred to the egg, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) which are ubiquitous organic contaminants with endocrine disrupting properties. It is, however, unknown if they can disrupt maternal hormone deposition. In this study we explored relationships between female PFAS burden and maternal deposition in the eggs of steroids (dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione and testosterone), glucocorticoids (corticosterone) and thyroid hormones (triiodothyronine and thyroxine) in a population of the Arctic-breeding black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla). Egg yolk hormone levels were unrelated to female hormone plasma levels. Second-laid eggs had significantly lower concentrations of androstenedione than first-laid eggs. Triiodothyronine yolk levels were decreasing with increasing egg mass but increasing with increasing females' body condition. Testosterone was the only transferred yolk hormone correlated to maternal PFAS burden: specifically, we found a positive correlation between testosterone in yolks and circulating maternal perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDcA) and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnA) in first-laid eggs. This correlative study provides a first insight into the potential of some long-chain perfluoroalkyl acids to disrupt maternal hormones deposition in eggs and raises the question about the consequences of increased testosterone deposition on the developing embryo.

Direct inhibition of human and rat 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances: Structure-activity relationship and in silico docking analysis

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent in the environment and may disrupt the endocrine system. Our previous study showed that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA, C8) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS, C8S) can inhibit 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (11β-HSD2) activity leading to an active glucocorticoid accumulation. In this study, we extended investigation for 17 PFAS, including carboxylic and sulfonic acids, with different carbon-chain lengths, to determine their inhibitory potency and structure-activity relationship in human placental and rat renal 11β-HSD2. C8-C14 PFAS at 100 μM significantly inhibited human 11β-HSD2 with a potency as C10 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration, IC50, 9.19 μM) > C11 (15.09 μM) > C12 (18.43 μM) > C9 (20.93 μM) > C13 (124 μM) > C14 (147.3 μM) > other C4-C7 carboxylic acids, and C8S > C7S = C10S > other sulfonic acids. For rat 11β-HSD2, only C9 and C10 and C7S and C8S PFAS exhibited significant inhibitory effects. PFAS are primarily mixed/competitive inhibitors of human 11β-HSD2. Preincubation and simultaneous incubation with the reducing agent dithiothreitol significantly increased human 11β-HSD2 but not rat 11β-HSD2, and preincubation but not simultaneous incubation with dithiothreitol partially reversed C10-mediated inhibition on human 11β-HSD2. Docking analysis showed that all PFAS bound to the steroid-binding site and carbon-chain length determined the potency of inhibition, with the optimal molecular length (12.6 Å) for potent inhibitors PFDA and PFOS, which is comparable to the molecular length (12.7 Å) of the substrate cortisol. The length between 8.9 and 17.2 Å is the probable threshold molecular length to inhibit human 11β-HSD2. In conclusion, the carbon-chain length determines the inhibitory effect of PFAS on human and rat 11β-HSD2, and the inhibitory potency of long-chain PFAS on human and rat 11β-HSD2 showed V-shaped pattern. Long-chain PFAS may partially act on the cysteine residues of human 11β-HSD2.

Perfluorooctanoic acid induces tight junction injury of Sertoli cells by blocking autophagic flux

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a man-made chemical widely used in consumers, could cause male reproductive toxicity by disrupting blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity. Autophagy in Sertoli cells is essential for regulation of spermatogenesis and BTB. However, it remains a mystery that whether PFOA-induced BTB injury is associated with autophagy in Sertoli cells. In this study, we found that PFOA dose-dependently disrupted tight junction (TJ) function in Sertoli cells in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, the results from transmission electron microscopy, Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis revealed that PFOA induced the accumulation of autophagosome in testicular Sertoli cells as well as TM4 cells. Further study confirmed that autophagosome accumulation resulted from the blockage of autophagic degradation because of disruption of autophagosome and lysosome fusion via downregulation of the expression of α-SNAP. In parallel, the overexpressed MMP9 was also observed in vivo and in vitro. Conversely, overexpression of α-SNAP inhibited the expression of MMP9 in TM4 cells. In conclusion, PFOA blocks autophagic flux through downregulating the expression levels of α-SNAP in Sertoli cells, and then induces the accumulation of MMP9 leading to disruption of TJ function. This finding will provide clues for effective prevention and treatment of PFOA-induced male reproductive toxicity.

Effects of perfluorooctanoic acid on endoplasmic reticulum stress and lipid metabolism-related genes in human pancreatic cells

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is environmentally persistent and has been classified by The International Cancer Research Agency (IARC) as a possible human pancreatic carcinogen. In this study, the epigenetic alteration, the changes in the expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress-related and metabolism-related genes, as well as DNA methyltransferase expression were investigated using RT-PCR and ELISA assays. PFOA induced a significant increase in the methylation ratio (5-mC%), impacted DNA methylation maintenance gene expression and decreased lipid metabolism-related genes except for PPARγ (≥ 13-fold increase). While PFOA induced the expression of ATF4 (≥ 5.41-folds), CHOP (≥ 5.41-folds) genes, it inhibited the expression of ATF6 (≥ 67.2%), GRP78 (≥ 64.3%), Elf2α (≥ 95.8%), IRE1 (≥ 95.5%), and PERK (≥ 91.7%) genes. It is thought that epigenetic mechanisms together with disruption in the glucose-lipid metabolism and changes in endoplasmic reticulum stress-related genes may play a key role in PFOA-induced pancreatic toxicity.

Fractionation of perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) along the aquatic food chain promoted by competitive effects between longer and shorter chain PFAAs

Perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs) are proteinophilic pollutants. We hypothesized that fractionation of PFAAs may occur along a food chain. To testify this hypothesis, we investigated the bioconcentration, bioaccumulation, and fractionation of 11 kinds of PFAAs (C-F = 3-11) along an aquatic food chain consisting of D. magna, zebrafish, and cichlid. The results showed that the proportions of PFNA, PFOA, and all shorter chain PFAAs in the D. magna and fish tissues were lower than the ones in exposure water, opposing to the other longer chain PFAAs. Predation promoted such fractionation differences, and the proportions of PFNA, PFOA, and all shorter chain PFAAs in organisms decreased while those of the other longer chain PFAAs increased along the food chain. The results of isothermal titration calorimetry and molecular docking experiments showed that binding affinities of PFAAs and fish proteins increased with the number of perfluorinated carbons, resulting in a substitution of shorter chain PFAAs by their longer chain analogues. It also triggered the differences in the uptake and elimination of PFFAs and competitive bioaccumulation between longer and shorter chain PFAAs. This study suggests that fractionation should be considered in studying environmental behaviors and evaluating ecological risks of multiple PFAAs.

Adverse PFAS effects on mouse oocyte in vitro maturation are associated with carbon-chain length and inclusion of a sulfonate group

OBJECTIVES

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made chemicals that are widely used in various products. PFAS are characterized by their fluorinated carbon chains that make them hard to degrade and bioaccumulate in human and animals. Toxicological studies have shown PFAS toxic effects: cytotoxicity, immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity. However, it is still unclear how the structures of PFAS, such as carbon-chain length and functional groups, determine their reproductive toxicity.

METHODS AND RESULTS

By using a mouse-oocyte-in-vitro-maturation (IVM) system, we found the toxicity of two major categories of PFAS, perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid (PFCA) and perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acid (PFSA), is elevated with increasing carbon-chain length and the inclusion of the sulfonate group. Specifically, at 600 μM, perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) reduced the rates of both germinal-vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and polar-body extrusion (PBE) as well as enlarged polar bodies. However, the shorter PFSA, perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS), and all PFCA did not show similar adverse cytotoxicity. Further, we found that 600 μM PFHxS and PFOS exposure induced excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Cytoskeleton analysis revealed that PFHxS and PFOS exposure induced chromosome misalignment, abnormal F-actin organization, elongated spindle formation, and symmetric division in the treated oocytes. These meiotic defects compromised oocyte developmental competence after parthenogenetic activation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides new information on the structure-toxicity relationship of PFAS.

Environmental toxicants and male fertility

Semen quality has declined especially among Western men. Experimental and epidemiological studies have shown potential links between exposure to environmental toxicants and poor male fertility. Some environmental exposures in utero can disrupt fetal testicular function and result in cryptorchidism, low semen quality, low serum testosterone levels, and low fertility. Environmental exposure in childhood and adulthood can also adversely affect germ cells, Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, or the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, resulting in impaired male fertility. In this review, we report the latest results from human studies that investigated the role of endocrine disrupting chemicals, heavy metals, tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking, and use of marijuana in low semen quality and impaired male fertility. Current evidence suggests the relationship between these environmental factors and low male fertility; however, some factors showed conflicting results which need further investigation.

Comprehensive review on the positive and negative effects of various important regulators on male spermatogenesis and fertility

With the increasing global incidence of infertility, the influence of environmental factors, lifestyle habits, and nutrients on reproductive health has gradually attracted the attention of researchers. The quantity and quality of sperm play vital roles in male fertility, and both characteristics can be affected by external and internal factors. In this review, the potential role of genetic, environmental, and endocrine factors; nutrients and trace elements in male reproductive health, spermatozoa function, and fertility potency and the underlying mechanisms are considered to provide a theoretical basis for clinical treatment of infertility.

Blood transcriptome responses to PFOA and GenX treatment in the marsupial biomedical model Monodelphis domestica

Introduction: Perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are widely used in industrial and consumer products. Due to their environmental persistence and bioaccumulation, PFASs can be found in the blood of humans and wild animals all over the world. Various fluorinated alternatives such as GenX have been developed to replace the long-chain PFASs, but there is limited information about their potential toxicity. Methods:The current study developed blood culture protocols to assess the response to toxic compounds in the marsupial, Monodelphis domestica. After whole-blood culture conditions were tested and optimized, changes in gene expression in response to PFOA and GenX treatment were assessed. Results: More than 10,000 genes were expressed in the blood transcriptomes with and without treatment. Both PFOA and GenX treatment led to significant changes in the whole blood culture transcriptomes. A total of 578 and 148 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in the PFOA and GenX treatment groups, 32 of which overlapped. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs involved in developmental processes were upregulated after PFOA exposure, while those enriched for metabolic and immune system processes were downregulated. GenX exposure upregulated genes associated with fatty acid transport pathways and inflammatory processes, which is consistent with previous studies using rodent models. Discussion: To our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the effect of PFASs in a marsupial model. The findings provide supportive evidence for significant transcriptomic alterations, suggesting that this mammalian model may provide a mechanism for exploring the potential toxicity of PFOA and GenX.

Exposure to a mixture of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances modulates pulmonary expression of ACE2 and circulating hormones and cytokines

Genetic and environmental factors impact on the interindividual variability of susceptibility to communicable and non-communicable diseases. A class of ubiquitous chemicals, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been linked in epidemiological studies to immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to viral infections, but possible mechanisms are not well elucidated. To begin to gain insight into the role of PFAS in susceptibility to one such viral infection, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), male and female C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to control water or a mixture of 5 PFAS (PFOS, PFOA, PFNA, PFHxS, Genx) for 12 weeks and lungs were isolated for examination of expression of SARS-CoV-2-related receptors Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) and others. Secondary analyses included circulating hormones and cytokines which have been shown to directly or indirectly impact on ACE2 expression and severity of viral infections. Changes in mRNA and protein expression were analyzed by RT-qPCR and western blotting and circulating hormones and cytokines were determined by ELISA and MESO QuickPlex. The PFAS mixture decreased Ace2 mRNA 2.5-fold in male mice (p < 0.0001), with no significant change observed in females. In addition, TMPRSS2, ANPEP, ENPEP and DPP4 (other genes implicated in COVID-19 infection) were modulated due to PFAS. Plasma testosterone, but not estrogen were strikingly decreased due to PFAS which corresponded to PFAS-mediated repression of 4 representative pulmonary AR target genes; hemoglobin, beta adult major chain (Hbb-b1), Ferrochelatase (Fech), Collagen Type XIV Alpha 1 Chain (Col14a1), 5'-Aminolevulinate Synthase 2 (Alas2). Finally, PFAS modulated circulating pro and anti-inflammatory mediators including IFN-γ (downregulated 3.0-fold in females; p = 0.0301, 2.1-fold in males; p = 0.0418) and IL-6 (upregulated 5.6-fold in males; p = 0.030, no change in females). In conclusion, our data indicate long term exposure to a PFAS mixture impacts mechanisms related to expression of ACE2 in the lung. This work provides a mechanistic rationale for important future studies of PFAS exposure and subsequent viral infection.

Exposure to Environmentally Relevant Levels of PFAS Causes Metabolic Changes in the Freshwater Amphipod Austrochiltonia subtenuis

Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are of concern to environmental regulators due to their widespread occurrence, persistence and reported toxicity. However, little data exist on the effects of PFAS at environmentally relevant concentrations. The development of molecular markers for PFAS exposure would therefore be useful to better understand the environmental risks of these compounds. In this study, we assessed if such markers could be developed using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry-based metabolomics. We exposed the freshwater amphipod Austrochiltonia subtenuis to a range of environmentally relevant concentrations of perfluoro-octane sulfonic acid (PFOS), hexafluoropropylene oxide dimer acid (GenX) and perfluorohexanesulphonic acid (PFHxS) for 7 days at five concentrations. A metabolic response was detected in all concentrations and treatments even though the survival rates only differed significantly at the highest exposure levels. The metabolic response differed between compounds but all three PFAS induced changes in the levels of amino acids, fatty acids, and cholesterol, in line with the literature. PFOS was found to bioaccumulate. Both GenX and PFHxS were eliminated from the amphipods, but PFHxS was eliminated at a slower rate than GenX. This information improves our understanding of the sublethal effects of PFAS as well as their environmental fate and behaviour.

Maternal Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Male Reproductive Function in Young Adulthood: Combined Exposure to Seven PFAS

BACKGROUND

Concerns remain about the human reproductive toxicity of the widespread per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during early stages of development.

OBJECTIVES

We examined associations between maternal plasma PFAS levels during early pregnancy and male offspring reproductive function in adulthood.

METHODS

The study included 864 young men (age range:18.9-21.2 y) from the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality (FEPOS) cohort established between 2017 and 2019. Plasma samples from their mothers, primarily from the first trimester, were retrieved from the Danish National Biobank and levels of 15 PFAS were measured. Seven PFAS had detectable levels above the limit of detection in >80% of the samples and were included in analyses. Semen quality, testicular volume, and levels of reproductive hormones and PFAS were assessed in the young men. We used weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression to estimate the associations between combined exposure to maternal PFAS and reproductive function, and negative binomial regression to estimate the associations of single substances, while adjusting for a range of a priori-defined fetal and postnatal risk factors.

RESULTS

By a 1-unit increase in the WQS index, combined maternal PFAS exposure was associated with lower sperm concentration (-8%; 95% CI: -16%, -1%), total sperm count (-10%; 95% CI: -17%, -2%), and a higher proportion of nonprogressive and immotile sperm (5%; 95% CI: 1%, 8%) in the young men. Different PFAS contributed to the associations with varying strengths; however, perfluoroheptanoic acid was identified as the main contributor in the analyses of all three outcomes despite the low concentration. We saw no clear association between exposure to maternal PFAS and testicular volume or reproductive hormones.

DISCUSSION

In a sample of young men from the general Danish population, we observed consistent inverse associations between exposure to maternal PFAS and semen quality. The study needs to be replicated in other populations, taking combined exposure, as well as emerging short-chain PFAS, into consideration. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP10285.

Health-related toxicity of emerging per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances: Comparison to legacy PFOS and PFOA

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly persistent, manufactured chemicals used in various manufacturing processes and found in numerous commercial products. With over 9000 compounds belonging to this chemical class, there is increasing concern regarding human exposure to these compounds due to their persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic nature. Human exposure to PFAS may occur from a variety of exposure sources, including, air, food, indoor dust, soil, water, from the transfer of PFAS from non-stick wrappers to food, use of cosmetics, and other personal care products. This critical review presents recent research on the health-related impacts of PFAS exposure, highlighting compounds other than Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluoroctane sulfonate (PFOS) that cause adverse health effects, updates the current state of knowledge on PFAS toxicity, and, where possible, elucidates cause-and-effect relationships. Recent reviews identified that exposure to PFAS was associated with adverse health impacts on female and male fertility, metabolism in pregnancy, endocrine function including pancreatic dysfunction and risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, lipid metabolism and risk of childhood adiposity, hepatic and renal function, immune function, cardiovascular health (atherosclerosis), bone health including risk for dental cavities, osteoporosis, and vitamin D deficiency, neurological function, and risk of developing breast cancer. However, while cause-and-effect relationships for many of these outcomes were not able to be clearly elucidated, it was identified that 1) the evidence derived from both animal models and humans suggested that PFAS may exert harmful impacts on both animals and humans, however extrapolating data from animal to human studies was complicated due to differences in exposure/elimination kinetics, 2) PFAS precursor kinetics and toxicity mechanism data are still limited despite ongoing exposures, and 3) studies in humans, which provide contrasting results require further investigation of the long-term-exposed population to better evaluate the biological toxicity of chronic exposure to PFAS.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and male reproductive function in young adulthood; a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of persistent industrial chemicals with endocrine disrupting properties.

OBJECTIVES

To examine biomarkers of reproductive function in young adult males according to current environmental exposure to single and combined PFAS.

METHODS

The study population consisted of young men (n = 1041, age 18-21) from the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality (FEPOS) cohort. These men were recruited from pregnancies included in the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC) between 1996 and 2002. From 2017 to 2019, participants answered an online questionnaire, completed a clinical examination and provided a blood and a semen sample. Exposure to 15 PFAS was measured in plasma. Six compounds were quantified above the limit of detection in at least 80% of the participants. We applied negative binomial regression and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression models to assess associations between single and combined exposure to PFAS and measures of semen quality, testicular volume and reproductive hormones among the young men.

RESULTS

We found no consistent associations between plasma concentrations of PFAS, semen quality and testicular volume. Higher levels of single and combined PFAS were associated with slightly higher levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (WQS 4% difference, 95% confidence interval: 0, 9). Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was the main contributor to this finding with positive signals also from perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) and perfluorohexane sulfonic acid (PFHxS).

DISCUSSION

We examined exposure to a range of common PFAS in relation to biomarkers of male reproductive function and found an association with higher levels of FSH among young men from the general population in Denmark. Further studies on especially combined exposure to PFAS are needed to expand our understanding of potential endocrine disruption from both legacy and emerging compounds in relation to male reproductive function.

Environmental exposure to legacy poly/perfluoroalkyl substances, emerging alternatives and isomers and semen quality in men: A mixture analysis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Multiple studies have examined the relationship between PFAS and semen quality, but none has explored the associations of PFAS mixture that includes emerging alternatives and branched isomers.

METHODS

22 PFAS, including 10 linear legacy PFAS, 7 branched isomers, 3 short chain alternatives and 2 components of F53B [e.g., 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonate (Cl-PFESA)] were quantified in blood plasma among 740 healthy men. Five semen quality parameters (i.e., volume, count, concentration, total motility and progressive rate) were assessed. Multiple linear regression and three multiple pollutant models (i.e., adaptive elastic net regression, quantile based g-computation, and XGBoost method) were used to assess the associations of individual PFAS and PFAS mixture with semen quality and the potential interactive effects among congeners.

RESULTS

After adjusting for selected confounders, perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS) and perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) presented significant and negative associations with sperm count [β_AENET = -0.09 (95%CI: -0.14, -0.03) for PFBS, and -0.16 (95%CI: -0.25, -0.07) for PFHxS] and sperm concentration [-0.04 (95%CI: -0.08, -0.001) for PFBS and -0.11 (95%CI: -0.17, -0.04) for PFHxS]. 6:2 Cl-PFESA showed negative associations with total motility (-2.33, 95%CI: -3.80, -0.86) and progressive rate (-1.46, 95%CI: -2.79, -0.12). But perfluoroheptanesulfonic acid (PFHpS) was positively associated with sperm count and concentration. These associations were supported by the importance assessment of these four congeners in XGBoost analyses. However, no associations were found between PFAS mixture or branched isomers and semen quality; nor were there significant interactions among PFAS congeners.

CONCLUSIONS

In the current cross-sectional study, we found that two emerging PFAS replacements (i.e., 6:2 Cl-PFESA and PFBS) and PFHxS exposure were associated with reduced semen concentration, total sperm count and motility in men. Meanwhile, significant positive associations between PFHpS and sperm count and concentration were also observed. But there were no consistent associations between PFAS mixture, branched isomers and semen quality.

Leydig cell function in adult male rats is disrupted by perfluorotetradecanoic acid through increasing oxidative stress and apoptosis

Perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PFTeDA) is a long-chain perfluoroalkyl compound with increased applications. Its effect on Leydig cell function and its underlying mechanism remain unclear. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (60 days old) were gavaged with PFTeDA at doses of 0, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/day from 60 to 87 days after birth. PFTeDA significantly reduced serum testosterone levels at 1 mg/kg and higher doses, while markedly increasing serum luteinizing hormone level at 10 mg/kg and follicle-stimulating hormone at ≥1 mg/kg. PFTeDA significantly reduced the sperm number at the cauda of epididymis at ≥1 mg/kg. PFTeDA also reduced the number of CYP11A1-positive Leydig cells due to increased apoptosis shown by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. PFTeDA significantly repressed the expression of Cyp17a1 and Star and their proteins at 1-10 mg/kg, while it increased the expression of Srd5a1 and its protein (an immature Leydig cell biomarker) at 10 mg/kg. PFTeDA markedly increased testicular malondialdehyde level, while inhibiting antioxidants (SOD1, SOD2, and CAT), triggering oxidative stress, thereby further inducing BAX and CASP3 while inhibiting BCL2, which led to cell apoptosis. PFTeDA also reduced DHH level secreted by Sertoli cells, which indirectly affected Leydig cell function. PFTeDA inhibited testosterone secretion in primary Leydig cells in vitro by increasing reactive oxygen species and inducing apoptosis at 50 μM. In conclusion, PFTeDA inhibits the function of Leydig cells by inducing oxidative stress and subsequently stimulating cell apoptosis.