Influence of targeted drugs and xenobiotics on semen parameters determined in a cohort of 500 Swiss conscripts

The screening of endocrine disruptors represents a highly important field for reproduction, mainly due to their likely influence on fertility problems that affect most industrialized countries. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether the presence of some xenobiotics or drugs could influence sperm parameters previously determined in 500 Swiss conscripts. Urine was an important standard matrix for the screening of drugs and xenobiotics. According to this, we analysed the presence of targeted drugs (buprenorphine, paracetamol, oxycodone, fentanyl, tricyclic antidepressants, THC, cocaine, benzodiazepine, amphetamine and morphine/opiates) in urine samples of 500 conscripts using specially designed immunological cassettes. THC positive urines have been quantified by GC–MS, and, simultaneously, urinary concentration of BPA and BPS have also been quantified using a LC–MS/MS method. Data obtained from this toxicological screening have been combined with the sperm parameters measured in the same individuals in order to perform a multivariate analysis and determine whether significant correlations exist between some of these observations. This study should provide relevant clue on the mode of action of commonly used xenobiotics or drugs that putatively affect male fertility