First evidence of microplastics in human ovarian follicular fluid: An emerging threat to female fertility
Luigi Montano, Salvatore Raimondo, Marina Piscopo, Maria Ricciardi, Antonino Guglielmino, Sandrine Chamayou, R Gentile, Mariacira Gentile, Paola Rapisarda, Gea Oliveri Conti, Margherita Ferrante, Oriana Motta
Abstract
Several studies have assessed the presence of microplastics (MPs) in human biological fluids and tissues highlighting potential health risks associated to oxidative stress, inflammation, immune dysfunction, neurotoxicity and reprotoxicity. However, only few studies have evaluated MP presence and effects in ovarian tissues of mammalians and, to date, no studies have detected MPs in human ovarian follicular fluids. Based on these premises, in this study, 18 women (undergoing assisted reproductive treatment at In Vitro Fertilisation center in Salerno, Southern Italy) were selected to assess the presence of MPs in follicular fluid. Plastic particles < 10 µm were measured using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) coupled with an EDX (X Energy Dispersion) detector. MPs (size <10 µm) were detected in 14 out of 18 samples of follicular fluid, with an average concentration of 2191 particles/mL (0–7181particles/mL) and with a mean diameter of 4.48 µm (3.18–5.54 µm). Moreover, a significant correlation between MP concentration in follicular fluid samples and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) (p-value <0.05), as well as a weak (non-significant) correlation with Body Mass Index (BMI), age and 17β-estradiol (E2), was found. On the contrary, no correlation with anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), fertilization outcomes, miscarriages, or live birth was observed. Since several studies on animal models have demonstrated the negative effects of MPs on ovarian function, the present study, that verified for the first time the presence of MPs in human follicular fluid, is of great significance for the scientific community in terms of raising awareness of the impact that these increasingly pervasive emerging contaminants have on reproductive function and human health. • Microplastics were found in human follicular fluid samples. • Plastic particles < 10 µm were measured using SEM with EDX detection. • Microplastics found in 14 out of 18 samples, average 2191 p/mL, mean diameter 4.48 µm. • Microplastics may enter ovaries through bloodstream, reaching the granulosa cells. • Correlation microplastic concentration & FSH (p < 0.05), weak with BMI, age & Estradiol.