What they found
Exposure to microplastics and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) can lead to diminished sperm quality and motility, testicular histological disruption, impaired ovarian folliculogenesis, granulosa cell apoptosis, and dysregulation of key reproductive hormones.
What they studied
This systematic review synthesized current knowledge on MPs/NPs reproductive toxicity, focusing on nanoplastics (<100 nm) due to their enhanced ability to cross biological barriers and induce cellular damage.
Takeaways
The review highlights potential strategies to address nanoplastic risks, including therapeutic interventions and preventive measures.
About this paper
This systematic review synthesizes existing literature on MPs/NPs reproductive toxicity. Critical challenges remain, including quantifying actual human exposure levels, understanding chronic low-dose effects, and elucidating combined toxicity with other environmental contaminants.