Research

16 pages, 1226 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Negative Impact of Varicocele on Basic Semen Parameters, Sperm Nuclear DNA Dispersion and Oxidation-Reduction Potential in Semen

by Kamil Gill, Michal Kups, Patryk Harasny, Tomasz Machalowski, Marta Grabowska, Mariusz Lukaszuk, Marcin Matuszewski, Ewa Duchnik, Monika Fraczek, Maciej Kurpisz and Malgorzata Piasecka

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(11), 5977; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18115977 - 02 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3484

Abstract

Since varicocele is so common in infertile men, this study intends to analyse the relationships between varicocele and conventional semen characteristics, sperm nuclear DNA dispersion and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) in semen. Varicocele-positive and varicocele-negative infertile men (study groups) showed significantly lower standard sperm [...] Read more.

Since varicocele is so common in infertile men, this study intends to analyse the relationships between varicocele and conventional semen characteristics, sperm nuclear DNA dispersion and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) in semen. Varicocele-positive and varicocele-negative infertile men (study groups) showed significantly lower standard sperm parameters and higher sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) and ORP in semen than healthy volunteers and subjects with proven fertility (control groups). A lower proportion of low SDF levels (0–15% SDF) and higher incidence of high SDF levels (>30% SDF), as well as a higher prevalence of high ORP values (>1.37 mV/10⁶ sperm/mL), were found in the study groups vs. the control groups. Moreover, infertile men had significantly lower odds ratios (ORs) for low SDF levels and significantly higher ORs for high SDF levels and high ORP. SDF and ORP were negatively correlated with sperm number, morphology, motility and vitality. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was found between SDF and ORP. The obtained results suggest that disorders of spermatogenesis may occur in varicocele-related infertility. These abnormalities are manifested not only by reduced standard semen parameters but also by decreased sperm DNA integrity and simultaneously increased oxidative stress in semen. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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13 pages, 402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fecundability and Sterility by Age: Estimates Using Time to Pregnancy Data of Japanese Couples Trying to Conceive Their First Child with and without Fertility Treatment

by Shoko Konishi, Fumiko Kariya, Kisuke Hamasaki, Lena Takayasu and Hisashi Ohtsuki

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(10), 5486; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18105486 - 20 May 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2790

Abstract

Fecundability, the probability of conception in a month or in a menstrual cycle, varies across and within age groups for both women and men. Fertility treatment has become common in a number of countries including Japan, but its impact on the age pattern [...] Read more.

Fecundability, the probability of conception in a month or in a menstrual cycle, varies across and within age groups for both women and men. Fertility treatment has become common in a number of countries including Japan, but its impact on the age pattern of fecundability is unknown. By utilizing the previously collected data on time to pregnancy (TTP) of Japanese couples trying to conceive their first child, the present study aimed to estimate fecundability and sterility by women’s age and to assess how the estimates may differ by including or excluding assisted conceptions. Duration between discontinuing contraception and conception (including both natural and assisted) resulted in a live birth was called TTP-all, and the duration ending with natural conception was called TTP-natural. TTP-natural was censored when a participant received fertility consultation or treatment. A zero-inflated beta distribution model was used to estimate a proportion of sterile (zero probability of conception) and a distribution of fecundability for each age group. Parameters of the distribution were estimated using the maximum likelihood method. When TTP-all and TTP-natural were used, the sterile proportion of the whole sample was, respectively, 2% and 14%, and the median (interquartile range) of fecundability was, respectively, 0.10 (0.04, 0.19) and 0.11 (0.05, 0.19). The median (interquartile range) of fecundability was 0.18 (0.10, 0.29) for women aged 24 years or younger and 0.05 (0.02, 0.13) for 35–39 years old when TTP-all was used, and the estimates were quite similar with those based on TTP-natural: it was 0.18 (0.10, 0.29) for women aged 24 years or younger and 0.06 (0.00, 0.15) for 35–39 years old. Exclusion of assisted conceptions resulted in larger proportions of sterility, but it had little impact on median or interquartile ranges of fecundability estimates. Fecundability is overall lower at higher ages, while interquartile ranges are overlapping, suggesting that inter-individual variability of fecundability within an age group is as large as the variability across age groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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12 pages, 348 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Urinary Bisphenol A, F and S Levels and Semen Quality in Young Adult Danish Men

by Thea Emily Benson, Anne Gaml-Sørensen, Andreas Ernst, Nis Brix, Karin Sørig Hougaard, Katia Keglberg Hærvig, Jens Peter Ellekilde Bonde, Sandra Søgaard Tøttenborg, Christian H. Lindh, Cecilia Høst Ramlau-Hansen and Gunnar Toft

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1742; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18041742 - 11 Feb 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3432

Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA) is considered an endocrine disruptor and has been associated with deleterious effects on spermatogenesis and male fertility. Bisphenol F (BPF) and S (BPS) are structurally similar to BPA, but knowledge of their effects on male fertility remains limited. In this [...] Read more.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is considered an endocrine disruptor and has been associated with deleterious effects on spermatogenesis and male fertility. Bisphenol F (BPF) and S (BPS) are structurally similar to BPA, but knowledge of their effects on male fertility remains limited. In this cross–sectional study, we investigated the associations between exposure to BPA, BPF, and BPS and semen quality in 556 men 18–20 years of age from the Fetal Programming of Semen Quality (FEPOS) cohort. A urine sample was collected from each participant for determination of BPA, BPF, and BPS concentrations while a semen sample was collected to determine ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology. Associations between urinary bisphenol levels (continuous and quartile–divided) and semen characteristics were estimated using a negative binomial regression model adjusting for urine creatinine concentration, alcohol intake, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), fever, sexual abstinence time, maternal pre–pregnancy BMI, and first trimester smoking, and highest parental education during first trimester. We found no associations between urinary bisphenol of semen quality in a sample of young men from the general Danish population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

11 pages, 588 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coital Frequency and the Probability of Pregnancy in Couples Trying to Conceive Their First Child: A Prospective Cohort Study in Japan

by Shoko Konishi, Tomoko T. Saotome, Keiko Shimizu, Mari S. Oba and Kathleen A. O’Connor

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(14), 4985; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph17144985 - 10 Jul 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4910

Abstract

Background: Low fertility persists but remains unexplained in Japan. We examined whether the probability of pregnancy was influenced by coital frequency, age, reproductive age (assessed by antimüllerian hormone, AMH), and BMI. Methods: We established a two-year prospective study with a sample of [...] Read more.

Background: Low fertility persists but remains unexplained in Japan. We examined whether the probability of pregnancy was influenced by coital frequency, age, reproductive age (assessed by antimüllerian hormone, AMH), and BMI. Methods: We established a two-year prospective study with a sample of hormonally monitored Japanese women aged 23–34 years wanting to conceive their first child. For a maximum of 24 weeks participants recorded menstrual bleeding, sexual intercourse, ovulation, and pregnancy. Additional information on pregnancy and infertility treatment was collected one and two years after intake. Results: The natural conception rate and coital frequency were both low in this sample. Among 80 participants, 44% (35) naturally conceived in 24 weeks. After two years, 74% (59) of women had delivered or were currently pregnant, 50% (40) due to natural and 24% (19) due to assisted conception, and 5% (4) were lost to follow-up. By two years, 56% (45) of women had sought fertility treatment. In 18% (58/319) of the observed ovarian cycles across 24 weeks there was no intercourse in a fertile period. Higher coital frequency at intake was associated with increased probability of conception by 24 weeks of follow-up (OR 1.23, 95%CI 1.02, 1.47). Chronological age, reproductive age, and BMI were not associated with the probability of pregnancy at 24 weeks. Conclusions: Our results suggest that first, natural conception rates could potentially increase with more frequent and well timed intercourse, and second that further work is needed to understand why even in a motivated sample of women monitoring their fertile periods, both the conception and coitus rates were low. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

29 pages, 1023 KiB

Open AccessReview

Reproductive Health Risks Associated with Occupational and Environmental Exposure to Pesticides

by Aleksandra Fucic, Radu C. Duca, Karen S. Galea, Tihana Maric, Kelly Garcia, Michael S. Bloom, Helle R. Andersen and John E. Vena

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(12), 6576; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18126576 - 18 Jun 2021

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 7607

Abstract

A marked reduction in fertility and an increase in adverse reproductive outcomes during the last few decades have been associated with occupational and environmental chemical exposures. Exposure to different types of pesticides may increase the risks of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, [...] Read more.

A marked reduction in fertility and an increase in adverse reproductive outcomes during the last few decades have been associated with occupational and environmental chemical exposures. Exposure to different types of pesticides may increase the risks of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disease, but also of reduced fertility and birth defects. Both occupational and environmental exposures to pesticides are important, as many are endocrine disruptors, which means that even very low-dose exposure levels may have measurable biological effects. The aim of this review was to summarize the knowledge collected between 2000 and 2020, to highlight new findings, and to further interpret the mechanisms that may associate pesticides with infertility, abnormal sexual maturation, and pregnancy complications associated with occupational, environmental and transplacental exposures. A summary of current pesticide production and usage legislation is also included in order to elucidate the potential impact on exposure profile differences between countries, which may inform prevention measures. Recommendations for the medical surveillance of occupationally exposed populations, which should be facilitated by the biomonitoring of reduced fertility, is also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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11 pages, 802 KiB

Open AccessReview

Microplastics: A Threat for Male Fertility

by Stefania D'Angelo and Rosaria Meccariello

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(5), 2392; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18052392 - 01 Mar 2021

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 12752

Abstract

Much of the planet is swimming in discarded plastic, which is harming animal and possibly human health. Once at sea, sunlight, wind, and wave action break down plastic waste into small particles: the microplastics (MPs). Currently, particular attention has been drawn to their [...] Read more.

Much of the planet is swimming in discarded plastic, which is harming animal and possibly human health. Once at sea, sunlight, wind, and wave action break down plastic waste into small particles: the microplastics (MPs). Currently, particular attention has been drawn to their effects on aquatic environments but the health risks, especially in mammals, are poorly known. These non-biodegradable materials can act as a vector for environmental pollutants, can be ingested by humans in food and water, and can enter and accumulate in human tissues with a possible risk for heath. Recent studies revealed the deleterious effects of MPs exposure in male reproduction and sperm quality, making them a potential hazard to reproductive success. This manuscript summarizes the main changes in sperm quality along the lifespan and the upcoming studies on the effects of MPs in male fertility in mammals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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19 pages, 6036 KiB

Open AccessReview

Perspectives of Nanoparticles in Male Infertility: Evidence for Induced Abnormalities in Sperm Production

by Mehwish Iftikhar, Aasma Noureen, Muhammad Uzair, Farhat Jabeen, Mohamed Abdel Daim and Tiziana Cappello

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(4), 1758; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18041758 - 11 Feb 2021

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5040

Abstract

Advancement in the field of nanotechnology has prompted the need to elucidate the deleterious effects of nanoparticles (NPs) on reproductive health. Many studies have reported on the health safety issues related to NPs by investigating their exposure routes, deposition and toxic effects on [...] Read more.

Advancement in the field of nanotechnology has prompted the need to elucidate the deleterious effects of nanoparticles (NPs) on reproductive health. Many studies have reported on the health safety issues related to NPs by investigating their exposure routes, deposition and toxic effects on different primary and secondary organs but few studies have focused on NPs’ deposition in reproductive organs. Noteworthy, even fewer studies have dealt with the toxic effects of NPs on reproductive indices and sperm parameters (such as sperm number, motility and morphology) by evaluating, for instance, the histopathology of seminiferous tubules and testosterone levels. To date, the research suggests that NPs can easily cross the blood testes barrier and, after accumulation in the testis, induce adverse effects on spermatogenesis. This review aims to summarize the available literature on the risks induced by NPs on the male reproductive system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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18 pages, 638 KiB

Open AccessReview

Prenatal Environmental Metal Exposure and Preterm Birth: A Scoping Review

by Rasheda Khanam, Ishaan Kumar, Opeyemi Oladapo-Shittu, Claire Twose, ASMD Ashraful Islam, Shyam S. Biswal, Rubhana Raqib and Abdullah H. Baqui

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(2), 573; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18020573 - 12 Jan 2021

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5523

Abstract

Preterm birth (PTB) and its complications are the leading causes of under-five year old child deaths, accounting worldwide for an estimated one million deaths annually. The etiology of PTB is complex and multifactorial. Exposures to environmental metals or metalloids are pervasive and prenatal [...] Read more.

Preterm birth (PTB) and its complications are the leading causes of under-five year old child deaths, accounting worldwide for an estimated one million deaths annually. The etiology of PTB is complex and multifactorial. Exposures to environmental metals or metalloids are pervasive and prenatal exposures to them are considered important in the etiology of PTB. We conducted a scoping review to determine the extent of prenatal exposures to four metals/metalloids (lead, mercury, cadmium and arsenic) and their association with PTB. We reviewed original research studies published in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, POPLINE and the WHO regional indexes from 2000 to 2019; 36 articles were retained for full text review. We documented a higher incidence of PTB with lead and cadmium exposures. The findings for mercury and arsenic exposures were inconclusive. Metal-induced oxidative stress in the placenta, epigenetic modification, inflammation, and endocrine disruptions are the most common pathways through which heavy metals and metalloids affect placental functions leading to PTB. Most of the studies were from the high-income countries, reflecting the need for additional data from low-middle-income countries, where PTB rates are higher and prenatal exposure to metals are likely to be just as high, if not higher. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

21 pages, 5735 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals on Endometrial Receptivity and Embryo Implantation: A Systematic Review of 34 Mouse Model Studies

by Donatella Caserta, Flavia Costanzi, Maria Paola De Marco, Luisa Di Benedetto, Eleonora Matteucci, Chiara Assorgi, Maria Clara Pacilli, Aris Raad Besharat, Filippo Bellati and Ilary Ruscito

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(13), 6840; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijerph18136840 - 25 Jun 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4735

Abstract

Several available studies have already analyzed the systemic effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on fertile woman and neonatal outcomes, but little is still known in humans about the precise mechanisms of interference of these compounds with the endometrial receptivity. There is consistent evidence [...] Read more.

Several available studies have already analyzed the systemic effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on fertile woman and neonatal outcomes, but little is still known in humans about the precise mechanisms of interference of these compounds with the endometrial receptivity. There is consistent evidence that continuous and prolonged exposure to EDCs is a risk factor for reduced fertility and fecundity in women. Preliminary studies on mammalian models provide robust evidence about this issue and could help gynecologists worldwide to prevent long term injury caused by EDCs on human fertility. In this systematic review, we aimed to systematically summarize all available data about EDC effects on blastocyst endometrial implantation. We performed a systematic review using PubMed^®/MEDLINE^® to summarize all in vivo studies, carried out on mice models, analyzing the molecular consequences of the prolonged exposure of EDC on the implantation process. 34 studies carried out on mouse models were included. Primary effects of EDC were a reduction of the number of implantation sites and pregnancy rates, particularly after BPA and phthalate exposure. Furthermore, the endometrial expression of estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR), as well as their activation pathways, is compromised after EDC exposure. Finally, the expression of the primary endometrial markers of receptivity (such as MUC1, HOXA10, Inn and E-cadherin) after EDC contact was analyzed. In conclusion EDC deeply affect blastocyst implantation in mouse model. Several players of the implantation mechanism are strongly influenced by the exposure to different categories of EDC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Environment and Reproductive Health: Feature Papers)

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