What are the specific molecular and cellular pathways that microplastics can affect in male infertility?
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Microplastics (MPs) can affect male infertility through various molecular and cellular pathways. Exposure to MPs can lead to abnormal semen quality, including decreased sperm motility, concentration, and vitality, as well as increased sperm abnormalities . MPs can induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis of testicular cells, leading to damage to the seminiferous tubules and spermatogenic cells . Additionally, MPs can disrupt the blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity, impairing the function of the BTB-related proteins . The activation of the p38 MAPK pathway and depletion of nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) have been observed in response to MP exposure, further contributing to the destruction of BTB integrity and apoptosis of spermatogenic cells . Furthermore, MPs can interfere with the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis, leading to endocrine disruption and decreased testosterone levels . These findings highlight the potential mechanisms by which MPs can impact male infertility.
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| Papers (4) | Insight |
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| The specific molecular and cellular pathways affected by microplastics in male infertility are the LH-mediated LHR/cAMP/PKA/StAR pathway, which leads to a decrease in testosterone levels. | |
| The specific molecular and cellular pathways that microplastics can affect in male infertility are the MAPK-Nrf2 signaling pathway, oxidative stress, and disruption of the blood-testis barrier (BTB). | |
| The specific molecular and cellular pathways that microplastics can affect in male infertility are not mentioned in the provided paper. | |
43 Citations | The specific molecular and cellular pathways that microplastics can affect in male infertility are not mentioned in the provided paper. |
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