Title : Environmental exposures, oxidative stress, and male infertility: A comprehensive review of mechanisms of damage and protective strategies
Abstract:
Male infertility is one of the major challenges in reproductive health worldwide and, in many cases, has a multifactorial and complex etiology. In recent years, oxidative stress and inflammation have been recognized as two pivotal mechanisms involved in the onset and progression of male reproductive disorders. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species, when the body’s antioxidant defense capacity is insufficient, may lead to lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced sperm motility and viability, and increased morphological abnormalities. On the other hand, exposure to modifiable environmental factors, including air pollution, heavy metals, pesticides, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, radiation, and adverse occupational conditions, can significantly impair male reproductive health by inducing oxidative stress and inflammation. The reviewed evidence indicates that these factors may be associated with reduced semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, viability, and normal sperm morphology, as well as increased sperm DNA fragmentation. Moreover, recent studies have highlighted the potential role of antioxidants and bioactive compounds such as melatonin in reducing oxidative damage and improving certain fertility parameters; however, the effectiveness of these interventions depends on the type of compound, dose, duration of use, and the individual’s baseline redox status. Overall, the available evidence suggests that multifaceted approaches, including reduction of exposure to environmental pollutants, lifestyle modification, inflammation control, and targeted antioxidant interventions, may be effective in the prevention and management of male infertility.
