Ovarian toxicity of endocrine-disrupting chemicals: current state of the problem

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC) represent a broad class of exogenous substances capable of interfering with the normal functioning of the hormonal system and exerting profound effects on female reproductive health. One of the most vulnerable targets for EDC action are ovaries, where they initiate a cascade of pathophysiological processes. This review systematizes current data on the key mechanisms of EDC-induced ovarian toxicity, including hormonal dysregulation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, epigenetic modifications, and disruption of intercellular signaling. It has been demonstrated that chronic exposure to the agents such as bisphenol A, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and dioxins leads to impaired folliculogenesis, ovarian reserve depletion, and premature ovarian insufficiency. Furthermore, we also discuss epigenetic inheritance mechanisms through which EDC may exert long-term effects on reproductive function across generations. Special attention is paid to therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating EDC-induced damage, including the use of antioxidants, signaling pathway modulators, and epigenetic regulators. Case studies are presented, which illustrate the global scale of environmental EDC contamination and their bioaccumulation in biological systems. The collective evidence underscors an urgent need for a multidisciplinary approach to risk assessment as well as development of preventive and therapeutic interventions to alleviate EDC impact on women’s reproductive health and to safeguard the reproductive potential of future generations.

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