Exposure to Bisphenol A and Z causes DNA damage and testicular histopathology impairing male fertility

Bisphenol analogues are commonly found in various consumer products such as food and beverage containers, electronic devices, toys, paper products, water pipes, and medical equipment. These compounds have been shown to disrupt endocrine function and exert harmful effects on multiple body organs. To investigate the tissue- and DNA-damaging effects of varying oral doses of Bisphenol Z (BPZ), a study was conducted on Wistar rats over a 4-week period. After 28 days, the rats were dissected, and tissue samples were collected. Tissue histology, Comet assay, and real-time PCR were performed to assess the effects of BPZ at the tissue and genomic levels. Sperm count and motility were significantly reduced in groups exposed to higher doses of BPZ (mean ± SD: 27.00 ± 7.94 and 4.33 ± 0.43, respectively). Morphologically abnormal sperm, including deformed heads and curly tails, were observed. The Comet assay on testicular tissues from rats treated with higher BPZ doses showed clear signs of DNA fragmentation. Histopathological analysis revealed narrowing of the interstitial spaces and constriction of the epididymal lumen. Additionally, down regulation of the Protamine1 gene was observed in rats receiving higher doses of BPZ, significantly associated with spermatogenesis. Our findings not only highlight the severity of BPZ's toxic effects but also emphasize that these chemicals are unsafe in any analogue form.