Bisphenol A: Epigenetic effects on the male reproductive system and male offspring

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a commonly used organic compound. Over the past decades, many studies have examined the mechanisms of BPA toxicity, with BPA-induced alterations in epigenetic modifications receiving considerable attention. Particularly in the male reproductive system, abnormal alterations in epigenetic markers can adversely affect reproductive function. Furthermore, these changes in epigenetic markers can be transmitted to offspring through the father. Here, we review the effects of BPA exposure on various epigenetic markers in the male reproductive system, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNA, as well as associated changes in the male reproductive function. We also reviewed the effects of father's exposure to BPA on offspring epigenetic modification patterns. •Epigenetic modifications during spermatogenesis and maturation.•Bisphenol A (BPA) exposure on multiple epigenetic modifications in male reproductive system.•The role of BPA in the transgenerational epigenetic effects of male offspring.