Endocrine disruptors in male fertility – a review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12923/2083-4829/2025-0009Keywords:
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals, EDCs, hormonal system, male reproductive system, male fertilityAbstract
Introduction. Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) have an impact on health and disease. We are exposed to EDCs from the earliest years of life, from children’s products, personal care products, food containers, pesticides, and herbicides. These chemicals often bind to endogenous receptors (e.g., estrogen receptor, steroid receptor) and disrupt normal brain function, reproductive organs, development, immune system, and many other organs. Recent studies indicate a potential link between exposure to EDCs and male infertility. In this review we also provide practical public health implications, prevention strategies and policy recommendations aligned with the WHO and the EU frameworks for reducing EDCs exposure.
Aim. This review aims to explore the relationship between exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals, we can find in items used on a daily basis and male reproductive health focusing on mechanisms of action, exposure timing and substance specific consequences.
Materials and methods. A narrative review of 62 articles retrieved from PubMed and open access sources (published up to May 2025) was conducted. The included literature covered molecular mechanism, function of Leydig and Sertoli cells, testosterone synthesis, semen analysis. Emphasis was placed on studies investigating adolescent and adult populations as well as animal models.
Conclusions. EDCs interfere with hormonal homeostasis and spermatogenesis through numerous often very subtle mechanisms. Alarming is high sensitivity of the male reproductive system during prenatal development and puberty, while even lowdose exposures can lead to lasting or even transgenerational effects.
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