Abstract Title:

[Relationship between phthalates and testicular dysgenesis syndrome].

Abstract Source:

Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue. 2007 Mar;13(3):195-200. PMID: 17393778

Abstract Author(s):

Guo-Rong Chen, Lei Dong, Ren-Shan Ge, Matthew P Hardy

Article Affiliation:

Department of Pathology, 1st Hospital Wenzhou Medical College, Pu Xue Road, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China.

Abstract:

Recent epidemiological evidence demonstrates that boys born to women exposed to phthalates during pregnancy have an increased incidence of cryptorchidism, hypospadias, testicular cancer and spermatogenic dysfunction, which are collectively referred to as testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS). TDS may be attributed to the dysfunction of Leydig cells and Sertoli cells during their differentiation after exposure to phthalates in utero. Fox example, Leydig cell functions are significantly affected by phthalates, leading to the decrease of two Leydig cell products--insulin-like growth factor 3 (INSL3) and testosterone, which are critical factors for testis descent. The disorientation of Leydig cells and Sertoli cells in the adult testis may be the cause of spermatogenic dysfunction.

Study Type : Commentary

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