Impact of Bisphenol-A as Endocrine Disruptor on Reproductive Endocrinology, Immune Function and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Mus musculus

Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA), a synthetic compound widely used in the production of plastics and epoxy resins, has gained significant attention due to its potential role as an endocrine disruptor. This study investigates the multifaceted impacts of BPA on reproductive health, endocrine function, immune response, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in Mus musculus (common house mouse). BPA's structural similarity to estrogen allows it to bind to estrogen receptors, disrupting hormonal signaling pathways and affecting reproductive performance, including gametogenesis and fertility. Chronic exposure to BPA is linked to altered hormone levels, impairments in ovarian and testicular function, and developmental anomalies in offspring. In addition to its effects on reproductive and endocrine systems, BPA is implicated in modulating immune responses. It alters cytokine production, weakens the adaptive immune system, and induces inflammatory states. These immune disruptions further complicate the organism’s ability to maintain homeostasis under environmental stress. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), enzymes critical for extracellular matrix remodeling, also exhibit altered expression and activity upon BPA exposure. These changes contribute to tissue integrity disruptions, potentially affecting reproductive tissues and immune organs. The cumulative effects of BPA on these systems highlight its pervasive toxicity and emphasize the importance of understanding its mechanisms of action. This study underscores the critical need for stricter regulatory measures to minimize BPA exposure, given its widespread environmental prevalence and deleterious health impacts on wildlife and humans. Future research should focus on elucidating the molecular pathways underlying BPA-induced disruptions and identifying safer alternatives for industrial applications.