Bisphenol A and its potential mechanism of action for reproductive toxicity

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an organic synthetic chemical used worldwide. Billions of pounds of BPA are produced annually through industrial processes to be used in commercial products, making human exposure to BPA ubiquitous. Concerns have been raised due to the potential adverse health effects of BPA, specifically in vulnerable populations, such as pregnant persons and children. BPA is an endocrine-disrupting chemical, and through this function has been linked to reproductive toxicity. We review BPA's historical and current use, health and safety concerns and regulations, sources of exposure, and evidence for male and female reproductive toxicity. Evidence from epidemiological and animal studies idenfity that low- and high-exposure levels of BPA (prenatal, postnatal and adulthood exposure) can adversely affect male and female fertility and reproductive organs. While the cause of BPA-induced reproductive toxicity is not fully understood, we discuss BPA's estrogenic and androgenic activity, and its ability to disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis as a potential associated mechanism. There are significant differences in tolerable daily intakes of BPA set by global agencies, making interpretation of previous and emerging research findings challenging and inconsistent. Although BPA is deemed toxic by some government agencies, most do not currently consider it a health risk due to low populational exposure levels. However, we highlight evidence that even at acute, low exposure, BPA can adversely affect reproductive function. We recommend continuing research into the adverse effects of BPA on human health and revisiting the regulatory measures of BPA to limit exposure and promote public awareness of its potential to cause reproductive toxicity.