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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals have become an issue of scientific and public discussion.
Vinclozolin (VNZ) is a fungicide that competitively antagonizes the binding of natural androgens
to their receptor, disturbing the function of tissues that are sensitive to these hormones, as is
the case of the male reproductive organs. A systematic review with meta-analyses of rodent
studies was conducted to answer the following question: Does exposure to VNZ affect sperm
parameters and testicular/epididymal weight? The methodology was prespecified according to the
Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and PRISMA recommendations. Sixteen articles met
the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 1189 animals. The risk of publication bias was assessed
using the Trim and Fill adjustment, funnel plot, and Egger regression test. Heterogeneity and
inconsistency across the findings were tested using the Q-statistic and I2 of Higgins, respectively.
Sensitivitywas also analyzed. Statistical analysiswas performed on Comprehensive Meta-Analysis
software (Version 2.0), using random models and weighted mean differences along with a 95%
confidence interval. Sperm motility, counts, daily sperm production (evidence of publication bias),
and epididymis weight were decreased in VNZ-treated animals. Exposure length and dose, as
well as the time point of exposure, influenced the obtained results. Despite the moderate/high
heterogeneity observed, the sensitivity analysis overall demonstrated the robustness of the
findings. The quality scores of the included studies were superior to 4 in a total of 9, then classified
as good. The obtained data corroborate the capability of VNZ exposure to disrupt spermatogenic
output and compromise male fertility.
Description
Keywords
Endocrine disruptors Vinclozolin Sperm