Air pollution alters sperm DNA methylation
Analysis based on 15 articles · First reported Jul 06, 2026 · Last updated Jul 07, 2026
The study adds to growing evidence linking air pollution to reproductive health, potentially increasing public and regulatory focus on air quality. This could impact industries contributing to pollution, such as transportation and energy, while boosting demand for air purification and environmental monitoring technologies.
A study presented at the 42nd Annual Meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and published in Human Reproduction found that exposure to common air pollutants (ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, fine particulate matter) during sperm development is associated with changes in sperm DNA methylation. The study involved over 2,000 men in United States — Salt Lake City, United States — Utah, from 2013 to 2017. Researchers identified 39 DNA methylation changes, with ozone and nitrogen dioxide as strongest contributors. Notably, changes in the imprinted gene GNAS, linked to semen quality and fetal development, were observed. The findings raise questions about male fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and offspring health, but further research is needed to confirm clinical significance.
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