Environmental Stressors Regulating Sperm Non-Coding RNA Involved in Intergenerational Inheritance

doi:10.12280/gjszjk.20240541

Abstract

Abstract:

Environmental stressors not only affect male fertility but also encode epigenetic information in sperm, thereby influencing the health of subsequent generations through intergenerational or transgenerational inheritance. Recent studies have found that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), as an important epigenetic molecule regulating gene expression, participates in the intergenerational inheritance mediated by sperm. The environmental factors can modulate the levels of ncRNAs in sperm, potentially leading to the disorders of endocrine, mental, reproductive and motor health in the offspring and even the third generation. Pharmacological interventions and lifestyle improvements can regulate the expression of ncRNAs in sperm, enhancing sperm quality and thus contribute to the improved health of offspring. Understanding the classification and functions of ncRNAs, the mechanisms by which environmental stressors alter the levels of ncRNAs in sperm, the role of ncRNAs in transgenerational inheritance and the particular role during sperm maturation, provides valuable references for exploring methods to improve human sperm quality.

Key words: RNA, untranslated, Spermatozoa, Sperm maturation, Paternal inheritance, Disorders of environmental origin

LIU Yu-bin, XUE Tao, CHEN Qin-yi, HE Xin-yun, LIU Yue. Environmental Stressors Regulating Sperm Non-Coding RNA Involved in Intergenerational Inheritance[J]. Journal of International Reproductive Health/Family Planning, 2025, 44(1): 65-70.

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