This comprehensive review examines the complex interplay between endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and the development of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). Despite the high cure rates of TGCTs, challenges in diagnosis and treatment remain, necessitating a deeper understanding of the etiology of the disease. Here, we emphasize current knowledge on the role of EDCs as potential risk factors for TGCTs, focusing on pesticides and perfluorinated and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs/PFCs). Evidence suggests that EDCs disrupt endocrine pathways and induce epigenetic changes that contribute to the development of TGCTs. However, the direct link between EDCs and TGCTs remains elusive and requires further investigation of the molecular mechanisms. We also highlighted the importance of studying nuclear receptors as potential targets for understanding TGCT etiology. In addition, recent evidence implicates PFAs/PFCs in TGCT incidence, highlighting the need for further research into their impact on human health. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the potential role of EDCs in TGCT development and suggests avenues for future research, while also highlighting how understanding their influence may pave the way for novel therapeutic approaches to improve disease management.
Molecular aspects of medicine. 2024 Aug 29 [Epub ahead of print]
Won-Ki Pang, Ekaterina Kuznetsova, Hélène Holota, Angélique De Haze, Claude Beaudoin, David H Volle
INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS UMR-6293, GReD Institute, Team-Volle, F-63001, Clermont-Ferrand, France. Electronic address: ., INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS UMR-6293, GReD Institute, Team-Volle, F-63001, Clermont-Ferrand, France., INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS UMR-6293, GReD Institute, Team-Volle, F-63001, Clermont-Ferrand, France. Electronic address: .