Perfluoroalkyl substances cause Leydig cell dysfunction as endocrine disruptors. (August 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhu, Qiqi; Li, Huitao; Wen, Zina; Wang, Yiyang; Li, Xiaoheng; Huang, Tongliang; Mo, Jiaying; Wu, Ying; Zhong, Ying; Ge, Ren-Shan
• Is Part Of: Chemosphere. Volume 253(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-08
• Subjects: Perfluoroalkyl substances -- Leydig cells -- Steroidogenesis -- Structure-activity relationship of PFASs; Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Physiological effect -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry -- Periodicals; 551.511
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.126764
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-6535

Abstract

Abstract: Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of man-made organic substances. Some of PFASs have been classified as persistent organic pollutants and endocrine disruptors. They might interfere with the male sex endocrine system, causing the abnormal development of the male reproductive tract and failure of pubertal onset and infertility. The present review discusses the development and function of two generations of Leydig cells in rodents and the effects of PFASs on Leydig cell development after their exposure in gestational and postnatal periods. We also discuss human epidemiological data for the effects of PFASs on male sex hormone levels. The structure-activity relationship of PFASs on Leydig cell steroidogenesis and enzyme activities are also discussed. Highlights: PFASs inhibit Leydig cell development. PFASs inhibit Leydig cell steroidogenesis. PFASs have clear structure-activity relationships. PFASs have several mechanisms to inhibit Leydig cell function.