In a groundbreaking effort to explore how environmental toxins affect fertility, researchers at Wayne State University have received federal funding to investigate the impact of PFAS – commonly known as forever chemicals – on male reproductive health.
With growing evidence that a father’s health and environmental exposures prior to conception can directly influence the well-being of future generations, this study signals a major shift in how scientists understand reproductive responsibility.
Backed by a new two-year $95,178 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms by which PFAS may impair sperm health and fertility, offering critical insights into an often-overlooked side of reproductive science.
PFAS explained
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a class of human-made chemicals used widely in consumer and industrial products for their resistance to water, heat, and oil.
Often dubbed forever chemicals, PFAS persist in the environment and human body for years, with contamination found in drinking water, food packaging, non-stick cookware, and firefighting foams.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a wide range of health issues, including thyroid disease, cancer, liver damage, and immune system dysfunction.
However, growing evidence also points to serious reproductive health concerns, particularly in men, as these chemicals can interfere with hormone production and sperm quality.
New focus: Male fertility under environmental stress
The Wayne State study, titled “Uncovering the molecular signature of PFAS mixtures on preconception male reproductive health,” will investigate how PFAS may disrupt key reproductive functions.
Researchers aim to better understand the effect of these chemicals on spermatogenesis (sperm production), sperm epigenetics (heritable changes in gene expression), and epididymosomes (vesicles critical to sperm maturation).
For years, reproductive research has primarily focused on maternal health. This project shifts the spotlight to the paternal side, emphasising the importance of a father’s environmental exposures in the months leading up to conception.
Scientists now believe that the condition of a man’s body — including his exposure to environmental toxins like PFAS — can significantly influence the health of his offspring.
Groundbreaking research led by emerging talent
Leading the study is PhD student DruAnne Maxwell, with mentorship from molecular obstetrics expert Dr Richard Pilsner and co-sponsorship by Dr Michael Petriello, an environmental health scientist.
The research builds on earlier findings supported by Wayne State’s CURES Pilot Grant Program, which produced promising data on PFAS-related epigenetic changes in sperm.
The new NIH grant, classified as an F31 training award, reflects a broader commitment to nurturing early-career scientists and advancing essential research at the intersection of environmental science and reproductive biology.
Urging environmental responsibility before conception
A central goal of the study is to promote awareness around male reproductive health and environmental responsibility.
Researchers hope the findings will encourage prospective fathers to consider lifestyle and environmental choices that could affect not just their fertility, but the health trajectory of future generations.
While eliminating PFAS from the environment remains a significant challenge, the study underscores the importance of minimising exposure.
Practical recommendations include avoiding plastic food containers, filtering drinking water, and advocating for stronger regulations around industrial chemical use.
A step toward healthier generations
This research has the potential to redefine how society approaches fertility planning and environmental safety.
By shining a light on how PFAS impacts male reproductive health, the Wayne State team aims to contribute vital knowledge that could inform public policy, clinical practices, and personal health decisions.
The project marks a significant step forward in understanding how modern pollutants influence human health, beginning even before birth.
