Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. 
Divine Aleru is an accomplished biochemist and researcher with a specialized background in environmental toxicology, focusing on the impacts of heavy metals on human health. With deep-rooted expertise in microbiome signatures analysis, Divine seamlessly blends rigorous scientific training with her passion for deciphering the intricate relationships between environmental exposures and the human microbiome. Her career is distinguished by a commitment to advancing integrative health interventions, leveraging cutting-edge microbiome research to illuminate how toxic metals shape biological systems. Driven by curiosity and innovation, Divine is dedicated to translating complex environmental findings into actionable insights that improve individual and public health outcomes. What was issued?
The review summarizes the effects of aluminum (Al) exposure on reproductive toxicity, particularly focusing on its effects on male and female reproduction in mammals. The review compiles data from various animal studies and assesses the bioavailability of aluminum through different exposure routes, such as oral, intramuscular, and intraperitoneal administration. The article provides an analysis of how aluminum exposure impacts reproductive organs, the fetus, and offspring development, highlighting that systemic exposure levels used in most studies are considerably higher than typical human exposure. It also details the key molecular mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, that contribute to aluminum-induced reproductive toxicity.
Who is affected?
Workers in industries like aluminum manufacturing, welding, and mining are at risk due to occupational exposure to aluminum fumes and dust. This includes individuals involved in aluminum production, where exposure to aluminum oxide or other aluminum compounds can occur. The general public, especially pregnant women and young children, may also be affected by aluminum in the environment through food, beverages, medications (e.g., antacids), or vaccines containing aluminum-based adjuvants. Additionally, animal studies play a crucial role in understanding the broader effects of aluminum exposure, as it impacts not just workers but also the general population through environmental exposure.
Most important findings
The review identifies that high aluminum exposure, particularly through industrial or medical sources, leads to significant reproductive toxicity in both males and females. In females, exposure to aluminum has been linked to ovarian atrophy and alterations in hormone levels, while in males, it affects sperm production and testosterone levels. Studies also report increased aluminum accumulation in reproductive organs like the testes, placenta, and fetus. Oxidative stress is highlighted as a key molecular mechanism, leading to cellular damage, DNA damage, and reduced fertility. The review emphasizes that typical human exposure levels are significantly lower than those used in animal studies, but the effects seen at higher doses suggest a need for cautious monitoring.
Key implications
For industry stakeholders, particularly those in aluminum production, the review calls for stricter safety measures to limit exposure to aluminum, especially in workplaces with high risk of inhalation or dermal exposure. Public health policies must take into account the potential risks of aluminum exposure, particularly in products like vaccines, where aluminum adjuvants are commonly used. Regulatory bodies should revise safety standards and ensure that long-term reproductive health risks are evaluated in occupational and environmental health frameworks. There is also a clear need for ongoing research to determine the cumulative effects of chronic low-level aluminum exposure, especially concerning reproductive outcomes.
Citation
Yokel, R. A. (2020). Aluminum reproductive toxicity: a summary and interpretation of scientific reports. Critical Reviews in Toxicology, 50(7), 551–593. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408444.2020.1801575
