Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and Male Infertility

Exposure to environmental contaminants has been an important cause of the decline in male fertility in the last 20 years. The most serious threat is represented by the release into the environment of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) capable of interfering with the endocrine system; affecting steroidogenesis, sperm quality, and oxidative balance; and inducing epigenetic modification. Furthermore, the EDCs can affect male reproductive system already in intrauterine life, resulting in a higher incidence of congenital anomalies and testicular neoplasms. This narrative literature review analyzes the impact of EDC exposure on male reproductive potential. The effects on hormonal regulation and alteration in seminal parameters were taken into consideration, as well as effects on sperm nuclear maturity associated with epigenetic alterations transmissible through generations and EDCs’ implication in the pathogenesis of reproductive system diseases. Lastly, limitations of studies on male reproduction effects of EDCs and new research perspectives to overcome them are also discussed.