We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Emerging pollutants in etiology and pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome
AI summary Read the abstract
This review explores how emerging environmental pollutants, including microplastics, pharmaceuticals, endocrine disruptors, and nanoparticles, may contribute to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome. The study suggests these pollutants can interfere with hormonal pathways and may play a role in the pathophysiology of this common endocrine disorder affecting reproductive-aged women.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine disorder affecting reproductive-aged women worldwide. Although genetic and lifestyle factors have been implicated in its etiology, emerging evidence suggests that exposure to environmental pollutants may also contribute significantly to the development and pathophysiology of PCOS. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential role of emerging pollutants, including pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), microplastics, endocrine disruptors, and nanoparticles, in PCOS development. The article summarizes the current understanding of PCOS pathogenesis and its clinical manifestations. Subsequently, it delves into the mechanisms of action of the emerging pollutants, exploring how they may disrupt the endocrine system, interfere with hormonal regulation, and contribute to the manifestation of PCOS symptoms. Moreover, the potential for cumulative effects and synergistic interactions between these pollutants demands a cautious approach when considering their role in PCOS etiology.
More Papers Like This
Environmental Exposures and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examined the relationship between environmental exposures, including micro- and nanoplastics, and polycystic ovary syndrome, a common hormonal disorder affecting up to 21% of women. Evidence indicates that various environmental pollutants may contribute to the development or severity of PCOS, though research specifically on microplastics remains limited. The study calls for more investigation into how plastic particle exposure during key life stages may affect reproductive health.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Impacts on Female Reproductive Health, Ovarian Function, and Genitourinary Disorders
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers review evidence that microplastics and nanoplastics accumulate in ovarian tissue, follicular fluid, and placental material, linking exposure to ovarian toxicity, hormonal disruption, reduced fertility, and elevated endometriosis risk through oxidative stress and inflammation-mediated pathways.
Microplastics and female infertility: reproductive toxicity and underlying mechanisms
AI summary Read the abstract
This review paper summarizes existing research on how tiny plastic particles called microplastics, which we absorb from food, air, and skin contact, can build up in the body and disrupt the reproductive system. Scientists have linked this buildup to conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and early menopause, likely because the particles trigger inflammation, hormone imbalances, and cell damage in the ovaries. While more research is needed to fully understand these connections, this matters because it suggests everyday plastic exposure could be a hidden contributor to the rising rates of infertility, especially in younger women.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics: Impacts on Female Reproductive Health, Ovarian Function, and Genitourinary Disorders
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed evidence showing microplastics and nanoplastics accumulate in ovarian tissue, follicular fluid, and the female genitourinary tract, where they trigger oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, and inflammation linked to reduced fertility, hormonal imbalance, and elevated risk of endometriosis.
Potential Role of Microplastics and Nanoplastics in the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis: An Environmental Health Narrative Review
AI summary Read the abstract
This narrative review explores the potential role of micro- and nanoplastics in the development of endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. The authors examine how plastic particles detected in human blood, reproductive tissues, and other biological samples could modulate molecular pathways involved in immune dysregulation, oxidative stress, and hormonal signaling. While direct causation has not been established, the review suggests that environmental plastic exposure warrants further investigation as a possible contributing factor to endometriosis.
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.