Semin Reprod Med 2024; 42(04): 288-301
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1801363
Review Article

PFAS Exposure and Male Reproductive Health: Implications for Sperm Epigenetics

DruAnne L. Maxwell
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
2   Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
,
Michael C. Petriello
3   Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
4   Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
,
J. Richard Pilsner
3   Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
4   Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
› Author Affiliations
Funding This work was supported by the Center for Urban Responses to Environmental Stressors CURES P30 ES020957 and P30 ES036084 (M.C.P. and J.R.P.) and R01ES035692 (M.C.P.); and Robert J. Sokol, MD Endowed Chair of Molecular Obstetrics and Gynecology (J.R.P.).

Abstract

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are persistent environmental contaminants found in human tissues and persist in the environment, posing significant risks to reproductive health. This review examines the impact of PFAS exposure on male reproductive health, with a focus on sperm epigenetics. PFASs disrupt endocrine function by altering key reproductive hormones and impairing sperm motility, quality, and viability. Epidemiologic and animal studies highlight inconsistent yet concerning associations between PFAS exposure and semen parameters, as well as altered gene expression and DNA methylation patterns. Moreover, PFAS exposure during critical windows of development has been linked to differential impacts on male versus female pubertal development, cognitive outcomes, and reproductive physiology, emphasizing the complexity of PFAS interactions. This comprehensive analysis highlights the need for continued research into the mechanisms by which PFASs influence reproductive health and development with potential implications for sperm epigenetics. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding the epigenetic mechanisms behind these disruptions, particularly DNA methylation and its role in heritable changes. Investigating the epigenetic modifications driven by PFAS exposure is crucial for elucidating the mechanisms by which these chemicals influence reproductive health. Future research should focus on understanding these epigenetic changes in both immediate fertility outcomes and transgenerational health risks.



Publication History

Article published online:
09 January 2025

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