PCB126 impairs human sperm functions by affecting post-translational modifications and mitochondrial functions.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Toxicology
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Global decline in semen quality linked to environmental pollution.
• Persistent organic pollutants (POPs), like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are significant environmental contaminants.
• PCB126 is an endocrine-disrupting chemical with potential health hazards, but its effect on human sperm function is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of PCB126 on human sperm motility, viability, hyperactivation, and acrosome reaction.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying PCB126-induced human sperm dysfunction.
• To examine PCB126's impact on critical protein modifications and mitochondrial function in sperm.

Main Methods:

• In vitro exposure of human sperm to varying concentrations of PCB126 (0.01–10 μg/mL) for 1 and 2 hours.
• Assessment of sperm motility, viability, hyperactivation, and acrosome reaction.
• Analysis of protein modifications (tyrosine phosphorylation, lysine glutarylation) and mitochondrial parameters (ROS, MDA, MMP, ATP generation).

Main Results:

• PCB126 exposure negatively affected human sperm motility, viability, hyperactivation, and acrosome reaction.
• PCB126 interfered with key post-translational modifications, including tyrosine phosphorylation and lysine glutarylation.
• Mitochondrial function was impaired, evidenced by altered ROS, MDA levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and ATP generation.

Conclusions:

• In vitro exposure to PCB126 adversely affects human sperm function.
• PCB126 disrupts sperm function by interfering with post-translational modifications and mitochondrial pathways.
• Findings highlight the detrimental impact of environmental pollutants like PCB126 on male reproductive health.