Age-Dependent Effects of Heavy Metals on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Testicular Axis-Related Hormones in Men.

ABSTRACT: The effect of heavy metals on male hormonal regulation-particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis-remains poorly characterized. We aim to investigate associations between heavy metal exposure and HPT axis-related hormones. We analyzed data, including male participants aged 3-80 years, from a nationally representative survey. Five metals and twelve sex hormones were measured. We used multivariate linear regression and restricted cubic splines to assess associations and dose-response relationships. Mixture effects were quantified using quantile-based g computation. The modifying effects of vitamin D and folate were examined. The underlying mechanisms were explored through a narrative review and integrative bioinformatics analysis. A total of 6547 males were included. Metal

SUBMITTER: Mei Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12846245 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature