Protective Effects of Myrtus communis Essential Oil Against Bisphenol A-Induced Sperm Dysfunction: Insights from...

BisphenolA (BPA) is a common endocrine disruptor that impairs male fertility through oxidative stress and alterations in membrane lipids. This study evaluated the protective effects of Myrtus communis L. essential oil (EOMC) on BPA-induced sperm toxicity in Wistar rats in vitro. BPA significantly decreased sperm motility and viability. It also increased lipid peroxidation, depleted thiols, and reduced the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT-like and GPx-like). Concomitant treatment with low and intermediate doses of EOMC (0.5-1 µL/mL) restored sperm function, reduced oxidative stress, and preserved membrane phospholipids. However, the highest dose (5 µL/mL) further impaired sperm function and disrupted membrane phospholipids. BPA also altered amino acid profiles and accumulated intracellularly, effects partially reversed by EOMC, which redistributed free BPA into the culture medium. Bioavailability analysis revealed selective absorption of α-pinene, while d-limonene and 1,8-cineole were undetectable. Molecular modeling indicated strong binding of BPA to antioxidant enzymes, potentially disrupting their structure and activity. Overall, these results show that EOMC protects sperm from BPA-induced damage in a dose-dependent manner through antioxidant, membrane-stabilizing, and redistribution mechanisms. This highlights its potential application in phytotherapy for male reproductive health.