Effects of exposure to plasticizers and microplastics on men’s reproductive health

Croatian Science Foundation: Research project IP-2024-05-8815

Duration: 36 months, 16 Dec 2024 – 15 Dec 2027

Abstract
Along with the well-known phthalate esters (PAE), organophosphate esters (OPE) are a less researched class of plasticizers. Due to their properties, they are frequently added to consumer products, which is the main reason of the compounds’ widespread migration in the environment. The detection of PAEs and OPEs in the urine of the general public (both children and adults) has drawn the attention of scientists and regulatory agencies responsible for protection of human health and environment. Furthermore, the global rise in the use of disposable plastic items has led to an escalation in human contact with microplastics (MP). One of the main objectives of the PlastRepRisk project is to establish an analytical platform for analysing plasticizers (OPE, PAE) and MP particles in complex matrices such as human blood serum and urine. Main goal is to obtain preliminary data on the levels of exposure of the general population in Croatia to OPE and PAE compounds and MP particles. Although their health effects have not yet been fully elucidated, certain OPE and PAE compounds, as well as MPs, are suspected to act as endocrine disruptors and/or have detrimental effects on reproductive health. This study will also evaluate the risks to male reproductive health by comparing men diagnosed with infertility to healthy (fertile) subjects. Correlations between the concentrations of specific OPE, PAE, and MPs in blood/urine and infertility defined as a low count and/or poor quality of sperm and disruption in sex hormone levels will be assessed in order to investigate the hypothesis that exposure to plasticizers/MP may adversely affect reproductive function. The research will provide key insights into the possible impact of OPE, PAE, and MPs exposure on reproductive health disorders under actual exposure levels, in addition to obtaining first data on the levels of exposure of the Croatian population (men of reproductive age) to these compounds/particles.