Authors: Jan W. Dallinga¹; Edwin J.C. Moonen¹; John C.M. Dumoulin²; Johannes L.H. Evers²; Joep P.M. Geraedts³; Jos C.S. Kleinjans¹

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 17, Number 8, August 2002 , pp. 1973-1979(7)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Various studies have been performed in which potential effects of xenoestrogens on fertility or sperm parameters were investigated by comparing groups of subjects exposed to different levels of these chemicals. METHODS: In our study we used an alternative approach, as we selected one group of men with very poor semen quality and another group with normal semen quality and determined the blood organochlorine contents in order to determine whether a difference in these levels could be established. Organochlorine compounds, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and PCB metabolites, were detected using gas chromatography. The concentrations were compared between both groups, and related to semen parameters. RESULTS: A comparison of both groups did not reveal significant differences in organochlorine levels. Linear relationships were found when PCB and metabolite concentrations were related to the age of the volunteers. Focusing on the subgroup of men with normal semen quality showed that sperm count and sperm progressive motility were inversely related to the concentrations of PCB metabolites within this group. CONCLUSIONS: The finding of a significantly decreased sperm count in relation to an elevated PCB metabolite level within the subgroup of men with normal semen quality is important. This is the first time that a correlation between exposure to environmental pollutants with endocrine-disrupting capacity and human sperm quality has been observed.

Keywords: endocrine disruptor; hydroxy-PCB; organochlorine; semen quality; subfertility

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Department of Health Risk Analysis and Toxicology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Maastricht University, P.O.Box 616, 6200 MD, Maastricht, 2: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and 3: Department of Clinical Genetics, University Hospital, Maastricht, The Netherlands

Publication date: 2002-08-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

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• In this Subject: Anatomy & Physiology ,  Obstetrics & Gynecology
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