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Common Pesticides and Industrial Chemicals Harm Gut Bacteria and May Threaten Male Fertility, Studies Warn

Two studies raise concerns that common industrial chemicals and pesticides can harm gut bacteria and potentially threaten male fertility. Cambridge researchers screened over 1,000 compounds and flagged 168 likely harmful to the microbiome, with about 30% of fungicides and industrial chemicals showing antibacterial activity. A separate George Mason study links insecticides, particularly neonicotinoids, to reduced sperm quality and testicular damage in animal models, noting these findings may be relevant across mammals.

08:25 PM, 12/01/2025Health
Common Pesticides and Industrial Chemicals Harm Gut Bacteria and May Threaten Male Fertility, Studies Warn

Two independent research teams report that hundreds of widely used industrial chemicals and pesticides can damage gut microbes that support human health and may also pose risks to male reproductive function.

Microbiome screening: Researchers at the University of Cambridge screened more than 1,000 chemical contaminants and identified 168 that are likely harmful to the human gut microbiome. The study—published in Nature Microbiology—found that many compounds not previously identified as antibacterial can inhibit gut bacteria. Fungicides and certain industrial chemicals had the largest effects, with roughly 30% in those categories showing anti–gut–bacterial activity.

Why the microbiome matters

The scientists warn that disrupting the microbiome can have broad consequences for health. Imbalances in gut bacteria have been linked to digestive problems, changes in metabolism and weight, altered immune responses, and even effects on mood and mental health.

Reproductive risks from insecticides

Separately, a team at George Mason University reported concerns about insecticide exposure—especially neonicotinoids—and male reproductive health in a paper published in Environmental Research. The researchers concluded that exposure to these chemicals could lower sperm quality, disrupt hormone balance, and damage testicular tissue. Although much of the evidence so far comes from animal studies, the authors note that mammalian reproductive systems share many features, supporting the potential relevance to humans.

Indra Roux (University of Cambridge): "Many chemicals designed to act only on one type of target, say insects or fungi, also affect gut bacteria."
Sumaiya Safia Irfan (George Mason University): "We concluded it is possible that exposure to these chemicals can lower sperm quality, disrupt hormones, and damage testicular tissue."

Implications and next steps

These findings suggest a need for expanded testing of chemicals for unintended effects on beneficial microbes and reproductive health, more human-focused research, and review of exposure limits and safety testing protocols. In the interim, reducing unnecessary exposure—through careful use of pesticides, improved industrial controls, and consumer awareness—can help limit potential risks.

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