Brief
Study links cigarette smoke to gene changes affecting fertility in mice
University of Nottingham and Sheffield scientists report gene alterations in mouse ovaries and testes after smoke exposure.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Scientists at the Universities of Nottingham and Sheffield say exposure to cigarette‑smoke extract caused gene changes in the ovaries and testes of mice, a finding that may help explain how smoking harms fertility in both sexes.
What happened
The researchers exposed male and female mice to low or high doses of cigarette‑smoke extract for 12 weeks. In females, ovarian follicle numbers and structure remained largely unchanged, but gene activity shifted toward patterns associated with ovarian ageing and reduced function. In males, higher smoke exposure enlarged seminiferous tubules and altered genes tied to sperm production, immune response and cell signalling.
What the reports add
The study, published in Frontiers, details that some sperm‑production genes became more active while immune‑related genes were down‑regulated. It also notes that the observed changes suggest "alter[ation] of biological processes important for normal testicular function and sperm development," according to the authors.
What was said
Professor Lucy Fairclough, co‑author from the University of Nottingham, said the work "identified potential biological mechanisms that could help explain the link between smoking and reproductive health in both men and women." She added that the findings are important for understanding how smoke exposure could affect reproductive health, though further research is needed to confirm relevance to humans.
How it came about
The study builds on established links between smoking and reduced fertility, addressing a gap in knowledge about the specific ovarian and testicular changes caused by smoke. The World Health Organisation estimates that about one in six people worldwide experience infertility at some point.
Key facts
- Researchers exposed mice to cigarette‑smoke extract for 12 weeks. (independent.co.uk)
- Female mice showed gene changes linked to ovarian ageing despite unchanged follicle numbers. (independent.co.uk)
- Male mice exhibited enlarged seminiferous tubules and altered sperm‑production gene activity. (independent.co.uk)
- The study was published in the journal Frontiers. (independent.co.uk)
- Professor Lucy Fairclough said the findings reveal potential mechanisms linking smoking to reproductive health. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Smoking may affect fertility in both men and women, new study finds”
