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Atlas and source of the microplastics of male reproductive system in human and mice
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Researchers mapped microplastic contamination throughout the male reproductive system in both humans and mice, finding plastics in the testes, epididymis, seminal vesicles, and prostate. The study suggests that microplastics found in semen likely originate from these reproductive organs rather than from external contamination. A lifestyle questionnaire revealed that living in urban areas, eating home-cooked meals, and using scrub cleansers were significant sources of microplastic exposure in men.
Regarding the impact of microplastics (MPs) on the male reproductive system, previous studies have identified a variety of MPs in both human semen and testicular samples. These studies have put forward the hypothesis that small particles can enter the semen through the epididymis and seminal vesicles. Here, we performed qualitative and quantitative analyses of MPs in human testis, semen, and epididymis samples, as well as in testis, epididymis, seminal vesicle, and prostate samples from mice via pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS). The goal of this approach was to comprehensively characterize the distribution of MPs within the male reproductive system. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate potential sources of MPs identified in semen, as well as to identify possible sources of overall MP exposure. Our results highlighted a general atlas of MPs in the male reproductive system and suggested that MPs in semen may originate from the epididymis, seminal vesicles, and prostate. An exposure questionnaire, coupled with the characteristics of the MPs detected in the male reproductive system, revealed that high urbanization, home-cooked meals, and using scrub cleansers were important sources of MP exposure in men. These findings may provide novel insights into alleviating the exposure of men to MPs.
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Researchers detected microplastics in both human testis tissue and semen samples for the first time, finding an average of about 12 particles per gram in testis and different plastic types in semen. Polystyrene dominated in testis while polyethylene and PVC were most common in semen, providing critical evidence that microplastics can pollute the male reproductive system and raising concerns about potential fertility impacts.
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This systematic review examines how lifestyle factors, including microplastic exposure, affect male reproductive health. Research shows that microplastics, along with other environmental contaminants, may contribute to declining sperm quality and male infertility, which now affects up to 50% of infertility cases worldwide.
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Microplastics were detected in all 40 semen samples from men in the general population with no occupational plastic exposure, with an average of 2 particles per sample and polystyrene being the most common type. Sperm exposed to different plastic types showed varying motility, suggesting that the kind of microplastic present may matter for male fertility.
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This review pulls together existing research showing that tiny plastic particles from our environment—found in water, food, and air—are turning up in reproductive organs like ovaries, testicles, and semen. Scientists believe these particles may disrupt hormone signaling, trigger inflammation, and even damage reproductive cells, potentially affecting fertility in both men and women. While the science is still developing and more long-term studies are needed, this is an early warning sign that everyday plastic exposure could have hidden costs for reproductive health.
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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.