Microplastics and male reproductive system: A comprehensive review based on cellular and molecular effects

Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as an important environmental challenge and can threaten human health. These particles can enter the human body through food consumption, breathing and even skin absorption and cause disruption in the functioning of various organs. In addition, MPs also have an effect on reproduction and can have a negative effect on various stages of reproduction, including gametogenesis and fertilization to embryo formation, and as a result, aggravate infertility problems. This research has investigated the effects of MPs on the male reproductive system, focusing on cellular and molecular processes and approaches to deal with this issue. This review conducted a comprehensive literature search across multiple scientific databases. Searches were performed in Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science to identify relevant publications. The search terms used included a combination of MPs, male infertility, sperm, toxicity, and related keywords. The final set of selected articles provides a comprehensive overview of the effects of MPs on cellular and molecular processes in the male reproductive system. In men, MPs can affect the structure and function of the testis and induce the aging process and the inflammatory signaling pathway, oxidative stress, and testicular malignancy. Also, these particles affect the process of spermatogenesis and disrupt sperm parameters. MPs activate different cell signaling pathways and have effects including reducing ATP production, reducing sperm DNA integrity, impairing sperm function and reducing sperm survival. On the other hand, MPs may have destructive effects on the production and balance of male hormones through interaction with the endocrine system. It is evident that proactive measures need to be implemented to address this issue and enhance reproductive health parameters.