We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Reproductive toxicity of microplastics role of oxidative stress in cellular and molecular damage
AI summary Read the abstract
This review synthesizes in vitro, in vivo, and epidemiological evidence on how microplastics cause reproductive toxicity, focusing on oxidative stress as the central mechanism. MPs infiltrate reproductive tissues, generate reactive oxygen species, and disrupt gametogenesis, hormone regulation, and embryonic development across multiple species.
Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as ubiquitous environmental contaminants, with increasing evidence suggesting their adverse effects on reproductive health across various species. This review critically examines the current understanding of MP-induced reproductive toxicity, with a particular focus on oxidative stress as a central mechanism of cellular and molecular damage. We analyse the pathways through which MPs infiltrate reproductive tissues, their transformation within biological systems, and the subsequent generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The paper synthesizes evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and epidemiological studies to elucidate how MP-induced oxidative stress disrupts reproductive functions at multiple levels, including gametogenesis, hormonal regulation, and embryonic development. Furthermore, we explore the potential transgenerational effects of MP exposure and discuss implications for human reproductive health. Finally, research gaps and future directions are identified to advance understanding of the reproductive risks posed by environmental MP contamination.
More Papers Like This
The Pressing Issue of Micro- and Nanoplastic Contamination: Profiling the Reproductive Alterations Mediated by Oxidative Stress
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examined how micro- and nanoplastics affect reproductive health across aquatic and land-based organisms, focusing on oxidative stress as the primary damage mechanism. Researchers found that these plastic particles can reach the gonads through the bloodstream and even accumulate in human and mouse placenta, with harmful effects on sperm and egg development, embryo growth, and offspring survival. The severity of reproductive harm appears to increase with smaller particle sizes and longer exposure times.
Mechanistic insights into microplastic-induced reproductive toxicity in aquatic organisms: A comprehensive review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarizes how microplastics cause reproductive harm in aquatic organisms by disrupting hormones, triggering oxidative stress, and interfering with cell death pathways. These effects lead to reduced fertility, abnormal egg and sperm development, and changes that can pass to future generations. Since microplastics accumulate through the food chain, these reproductive effects in aquatic life could have broader implications for ecosystem health and the seafood that humans consume.
Reproductive toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarizes existing research on how micro- and nanoplastics harm reproduction across many species, from marine invertebrates to mammals. The particles can cause oxidative stress and hormone disruption, leading to reduced fertility, abnormal embryo development, and toxic effects that pass to offspring. The findings raise concerns that human reproductive health could be similarly affected given our increasing exposure to these particles.
Research Progress in Reproductive Toxicity of Micro- and Nanoplastics on Males and Its Mechanisms
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarized research on the reproductive toxicity of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) in males, finding that MNPs accumulate in reproductive organs and cause toxicity through oxidative stress, hormonal disruption, and DNA damage, with implications for both animal and human reproductive health.
Microplastics: unraveling the signaling pathways involved in reproductive health
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the effects of microplastics on male and female reproductive health, focusing on the metabolic pathways involved in compromised gamete quality, toxicity, apoptosis, and DNA damage. Evidence indicates that microplastics can increase oxidative stress leading to developmental abnormalities, epigenetic changes, and reduced gamete quality, though research on mammalian and human reproductive effects remains limited compared to studies in aquatic organisms.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.