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Updated: Nov 25, 2025
Long-term Behavioral and Reproductive Consequences of Embryonic Exposure to Low-dose Toxicants
Published on: March 6, 2018
Enhanced reproductive toxicities induced by phthalates contaminated microplastics in male mice (Mus musculus)
Yongfeng Deng1, Zehua Yan1, Ruqin Shen1
1State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control and Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China.
Abstract:
It has been demonstrated that microplastics (MPs) can transport phthalate esters (PAEs) into the tissues of mice. However, the influence of MPs on accumulation of PAEs and the combined toxicity need profound investigation. In this study, the bioaccumulation of PAEs and reproductive toxicity due to contaminated MPs exposure were investigated. After exposure to PAE-contaminated MPs for 30 days, significantly increased accumulation of PAE was observed in the liver and gut but not in the testis, which are ascribed to the distribution of MPs in tissues. Herein, most micro-size MPs accumulated in the gut and liver, while only a few nano-size MPs entered the Sertoli cells. Compared with virgin MPs and PAEs alone, PAE-contaminated MPs induced enhanced reproductive toxicities manifested by greater alterations in sperm physiology and spermatogenesis. The enhanced toxicities were also confirmed by the testicular transcriptomic alterations and aggravated oxidative stress induced by PAE-contaminated MPs. These aggravated reproductive toxicities were not caused solely by PAE, but may also be caused by the sensitization effect of oxidative stress induced by MPs. Our results highlight the potential reproductive toxicity on male terrestrial mammals due to co-exposure of MPs and plastic additives and provide valuable insights into the mechanism of combined toxicity of MPs and other pollutants.
Insights
Microplastics (MPs) carrying phthalate esters (PAEs) increase PAE accumulation in mouse livers and guts. This combined exposure enhances reproductive toxicity and oxidative stress, highlighting risks for male mammals.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are known to transport phthalate esters (PAEs).
- The combined toxicity and bioaccumulation effects of PAE-contaminated MPs require further investigation.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for assessing environmental health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the bioaccumulation of PAEs transported by MPs in mice.
- To evaluate the reproductive toxicity of PAE-contaminated MPs.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the combined toxicity of MPs and PAEs.
Main Methods:
- Mice were exposed to PAE-contaminated MPs for 30 days.
- PAE accumulation in liver, gut, and testis tissues was measured.
- Sperm physiology, spermatogenesis, testicular transcriptomics, and oxidative stress markers were analyzed.
Main Results:
- PAE accumulation increased significantly in the liver and gut, correlating with MP distribution.
- PAE-contaminated MPs induced greater reproductive toxicity than MPs or PAEs alone.
- Enhanced toxicity was linked to testicular transcriptomic alterations and aggravated oxidative stress.
Conclusions:
- PAE-contaminated MPs pose potential reproductive risks to male terrestrial mammals.
- The combined toxicity involves PAE accumulation and MP-induced oxidative stress.
- This study provides insights into the synergistic toxic effects of MPs and co-pollutants.
