Plastic – (not) fantastic? Impact of bisphenol A on functioning of mammalian oocytes and embryos

Bisphenol A is a monomeric organic compound belonging to phenols. It is widely used in the production of resins, polycarbonates and plastics. Mass production of this compound contributed to its widespread presence in the environment, and thus - in the organisms of animals and humans. BPA belongs to xenoestrogens, synthetic compounds exerting an estrogen-like effect on cells. BPA can therefore disrupt the functioning of animal (including human) organisms. This article focuses on the impact of BPA on selected aspects of mammalian fertility. Recent literature data indicate that BPA disturbs several processes in oocytes and embryos, including epigenetic modifications, energy metabolism and spindle assembly, and as a result, decreases their developmental competence. We discuss the latest data on the influence of BPA on cellular processes taking place in oocytes and early embryos and describe molecular mechanisms responsible for this effect. We also discuss the significance of the results obtained from experiments conducted in vitro and/or on animal models in the context of BPA impact on fertility of women.