# Environmental determinants of male infertility: emerging threats and technological interventions

## TL;DR

Environmental factors like pollution and chemicals are major causes of male infertility, and new technologies like AI and multi-omics data could help predict and treat this issue.

## Contribution

The paper introduces an integrated framework combining AI and multi-omics data with environmental metrics to predict and address male infertility.

## Key findings

- Environmental contaminants are linked to declining semen quality through oxidative stress and hormonal imbalances.
- AI algorithms can analyze multi-omics and environmental data to predict fertility risk and guide personalized treatments.
- More research is needed to identify reliable biomarkers and understand the molecular mechanisms of environmental infertility.

## Abstract

Male infertility stands as a significant global concern, contributing to nearly 50% of infertility cases and affecting approximately 7% of the male population. Mounting evidence identifies environmental degradation is a major, modifiable driver. Numerous environmental contaminants, including air pollution, heavy metals, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), microplastics, pharmaceutical contaminants, and climate change linked to deteriorating semen quality. These environmental toxins can decrease spermatogenesis and overall sperm function by triggering oxidative stress, hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and epigenetic alterations. This review highlights the increasing necessity of incorporating environmental exposure data (eco-profiles) into routine semen analysis. An integrated framework is outlined in which AI algorithms analyze multi-omics biomarkers, ranging from genomics to metabolomics, together with environmental metrics. These combined data are used to predict individual fertility risk and to guide personalized treatment strategies, particularly in the context of assisted reproductive technologies. Future studies are essential to find trustworthy biomarkers and elucidate the molecular processes that connect environmental contaminants to male infertility. As environmental toxicants intensify, the comprehensive toxicological studies are in need to enhance curative approaches and preventative strategies that ultimately aim at safeguarding male fertility.