The role of epigenetics in the reproductive toxicity of environmental endocrine disruptors

Environ Mol Mutagen. 2021 Jan;62(1):78-88. doi: 10.1002/em.22414. Epub 2020 Nov 27.

Abstract

Environmental endocrine disruptors (EEDs) seriously endanger human health by interfering with the normal function of reproductive systems. In males, EEDs can affect sperm formation and semen quality as well spermatogenesis, ultimately reducing fertility. In females, EEDs can affect uterine development and the expression levels of reproduction-related genes, ultimately reducing female fertility and the normal development of the fetus. There are a large number of putative mechanisms by which EEDs can induce reproductive toxicity, and many studies have shown the involvement of epigenetics. In this review, we summarize the role of DNA methylation, noncoding RNAs, genomic imprinting, chromatin remodeling and histone modification in the reproductive toxicity of EEDs.

Keywords: DNA methylation; environmental endocrine disruptors; genomic imprinting; noncoding RNAs; reproductive toxicity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Methylation / drug effects
  • Endocrine Disruptors / toxicity*
  • Environmental Pollutants / toxicity*
  • Epigenesis, Genetic / drug effects*
  • Epigenomics / methods
  • Genomic Imprinting / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Reproduction / drug effects*

Substances

  • Endocrine Disruptors
  • Environmental Pollutants