Mechanism of reproductive toxicity of BHT on male Ruditapes philippinarum: epigenetic - testis development and oxidative damage - cell death

Synthetic phenolic antioxidants (SPAs) are widely utilized in industrial production and consumer goods owing to their excellent antioxidant properties. However, their potential for multiple toxic effects, coupled with the increasing levels of environmental pollution, has heightened public concern. Currently, there is a relative scarcity of study on the reproductive toxicology of SPAs in hydrobios, with a particular dearth of studies in invertebrates. This study investigates the reproductive toxicity of the typical SPAs butylhydroxytoluene (BHT) in male clams Ruditapes philippinarum across distinct breeding period. The finding show that,the processes of meiosis and spermatogenesis were inhibited, leading to a decreased number of mature sperm and a reduced gonad index. Furthermore, an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) content was observed in the testes under BHT stress, causing biomacromolecular damage. BHT induces different types of cell death processes in testis cells, thereby damaging sperm development.Ultimately, this investigation clarifies the molecular basis for reproductive toxicity caused by BHT in invertebrates living in water. The research specifically analyzed contributing factors including endocrine disruption, epigenetic effects, and oxidative stress. The experimental results provide valuable data support for marine shellfish germplasm conservation and marine SPAs pollution detection.