Genetic, Epigenetic, and Environmental Determinants of Male Reproductive Function Across the Lifespan

Emerging evidence highlights a complex interplay among genetic predisposition, epigenetic programming, and environmental influences in shaping testicular function. Genome-wide association studies have identified variants influencing pubertal onset and testicular physiology, while advances in epigenetics reveal how developmental programming and life-course exposures can induce lasting molecular changes in germ and somatic cells of the testis. In parallel, a wider range of environmental and lifestyle-related factors, including metabolic conditions (e.g., obesity, diabetes), toxicological exposures, nutrition, and psychosocial stress, are increasingly recognized as interacting with genetic and epigenetic pathways to influence reproductive health. Despite these advances, a lack of integrated frameworks connecting these biological layers and clarifying causal mechanisms continues to limit translation into effective interventions.This Research Topic aims to address these gaps by encouraging studies that integrate genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and endocrine perspectives to better understand how early-life development, pubertal timing, and post-pubertal exposures collectively shape adult testicular physiology. Particular emphasis remains on genetic determinants, while also incorporating environmental and lifestyle influences. The primary objectives are to elucidate causal pathways, identify biomarkers of susceptibility or resilience, and define modifiable risk factors contributing to reproductive disorders.This Research Topic welcomes contributions that provide mechanistic, physiological, and pathophysiological insights, including studies exploring disease models and potential therapeutic targets, into male reproductive function across the lifespan.Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:- Genetic and polygenic determinants of testicular development and function across the lifespan- Epigenetic regulation of testicular development (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNAs)- Environmental, metabolic, and lifestyle factors (e.g., endocrine disruptors, obesity, diabetes, nutrition, stress)- Pathophysiological conditions and disease models affecting testicular function (e.g., cryptorchidism, varicocele, injury)- Mechanistic and translational studies, including experimental models and therapeutic targets- Longitudinal and cohort studies linking early-life, pubertal, and post-pubertal exposures to adult outcomes- Biomarkers and approaches for risk prediction, prevention, or intervention in male reproductive health Topic editors: Kristian Almstrup, Verónica Mericq, Andrea Castro, Maria Cecilia Lardone Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/76581/genetic-epigenetic-and-environmental-determinants-of-male-reproductive-function-across-the-lifespan