Exploring the Occurrence of Organic Contaminants in Human Semen through an Innovative LC-HRMS-Based Methodology Suitable for Target and Nontarget Analysis

Understanding the potential impact of organic contaminants on male fertility is crucial, yet limited studies have examined these chemicals in semen, with most focusing on urine and blood. To address this gap, we developed and validated a robust LC-HRMS methodology for semen analysis, with a focus on polar and semipolar chemicals. Our methodology enables the quantitative (or semiquantitative) analysis of >2000 chemicals being compatible with suspect and nontarget strategies and providing unprecedented insights into the occurrence and potential bioaccumulation of diverse contaminants in this matrix. We comprehensively analyzed exogenous organic chemicals and associated metabolites in ten semen samples from Spanish participants collected in an area with a large presence of the chemical industry included in the LED-FERTYL Spanish study cohort. This investigation revealed the presence of various contaminants in semen, including plastic additives, PFAS, flame retardants, surfactants, and insecticides. Notably, prevalent plastic additives such as phthalic acid esters and bisphenols were identified, indicating potential health risks. Additionally, we uncovered previously understudied chemicals like the tire additive 2-mercaptobenzothiazole and specific organophosphate flame retardants. This study showcases the potential of our methodology as a valuable tool for large-scale cohort studies, providing insights into the association between contaminant exposure and the risk of male fertility impairments.

Bibliographic Details

Main Authors:	Sánchez-Resino, Elena, Marquès, Montse, Gutiérrez-Martín, Daniel, Restrepo-Montes, Esteban, Martínez, María Ángeles, Salas-Huetos, Albert, Babio, Nancy, Salas-Salvadó, Jordi, Gil-Solsona, Rubén, Gago-Ferrero, Pablo
Other Authors:	0000-0002-1019-7658
Format:	artículo biblioteca
Language:	English
Published:	American Chemical Society 2023-12-05
Subjects:	Seminal plasma, LED-FERTYL study, Emerging pollutants, High-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), Human exposure, Male fertility, Semen quality, http://metadata.un.org/sdg/3, Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages,
Online Access:	http://hdl.handle.net/10261/340385 https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85178360906
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