Endocrine disrupting chemicals and male fertility: from physiological to molecular effects

Front Public Health. 2023 Oct 10:11:1232646. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1232646. eCollection 2023.

Abstract

The deleterious effects of chemical or non-chemical endocrine disruptors (EDs) on male fertility potential is well documented but still not fully elucidated. For example, the detection of industrial chemicals' metabolites in seminal plasma and follicular fluid can affect efficiency of the gametogenesis, the maturation and competency of gametes and has guided scientists to hypothesize that endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may disrupt hormonal homoeostasis by leading to a wide range of hormonal control impairments. The effects of EDCs exposure on reproductive health are highly dependent on factors including the type of EDCs, the duration of exposure, individual susceptibility, and the presence of other co-factors. Research and scientists continue to study these complex interactions. The aim of this review is to summarize the literature to better understand the potential reproductive health risks of EDCs in France.

Keywords: endocrine disrupting chemicals; epigenetics modification; hormonal disorders; pesticides; sperm characteristics; spermatogenesis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Endocrine Disruptors* / chemistry
  • Female
  • Fertility
  • France
  • Humans
  • Male

Substances

  • Endocrine Disruptors