A Looming Hazard to Male Fertility

A recent study reveals that the commonly used agricultural herbicide clethodim can profoundly impact male reproductive well-being, emphasizing its hazards on fertility and embryonic growth in males, as published in the journal Chemosphere (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
High doses of clethodim-based herbicide GrassOut Max poses reproductive hazard by affecting male reproductive function and early embryogenesis in Swiss albino mice

Go to source). The results of this study have raised significant concerns about male reproductive health, revealing a spectrum of effects including a reduction in testicular weight, a decrease in germ cell population, lower levels of serum testosterone, abnormalities in sperm, and compromised preimplantation embryo development.

Examining Clethodim's Threat

"Although clethodim has been an approved herbicide for some time, our study unveils previously uncharted repercussions on male reproductive health and the early stages of embryonic development. These findings necessitate further investigation and thoughtful reconsideration of the use of such herbicides to ensure the well-being of both humans and our environment," said Dr. Guruprasad Kalthur, the principal investigator and expert in fertility and reproductive science at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal.

Dr. Keshava Prasad, Professor and Deputy Director, Centre for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine at Yenepoya Research Center, Mangalore, emphasized the necessity of molecular-level screenings to comprehend the potential effects of herbicides on human and environmental health.

Dr. Satish Kumar Adiga, Head of, the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology at Kasturba Medical College, further highlighted the worrisome connection between environmental pollutants and compromised sperm function – a pressing concern in recent years.

The researchers further underlined the urgency of comprehensive testing for this post-emergent herbicide, revisiting its application when possible, and advocating for upgraded standards in the formulation of new agents for similar uses.

Reference:

1. High doses of clethodim-based herbicide GrassOut Max poses reproductive hazard by affecting male reproductive function and early embryogenesis in Swiss albino mice - (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0045653523014820)

Source-IANS