Quaternary ammonium compound exposure causes infertility by altering endocrine signaling and gametogenesis

Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are common substances utilized in cleaners, ophthalmic solutions, swimming pool treatments, cosmetics, and other consumer goods. Previous studies have shown that QAC exposure causes infertility in both male and female mice. Based on these studies, we hypothesized that oral QAC exposure negatively impacts male and female reproduction through changes in physiologic and endocrine mechanisms rather than direct toxicity to gametes. Endocrine disruption was assessed by evaluating luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations in male and female mice exposed orally throughout gestation and lactation, and by changes in estrogen and progesterone in in orally exposed females throughout pregnancy. Sperm functionality and spermatogenesis were assessed by in vitro fertilization; while Sertoli cell homeostasis was evaluated by determining cellular metabolism, cell cycle progression and blood-testes barrier (BTB) permeability. QAC exposure decreased LH, and FSH concentrations in both males and females, and decreased progesterone and estrogen concentrations during pregnancy. QACs significantly decreased Sertoli cell metabolism at 0.0005 % ADBAC+DDAC well before disruption of the BTB at 0.01 %. Fertilization was not affected 24 h after exposure but was decreased after a 10 day rest period suggesting a disruption in spermatogenesis rather than direct toxicity to sperm. Lastly, QAC exposure altered Sertoli cell cycling with a G2/M cycle arrest. While the effect of QAC exposure on humans is unknown, implications from the in vivo and in vitro studies are concerning given the rise in infertility rates and increased reliance on assisted reproductive technologies along with ubiquitous exposure to QACs.