A preliminary understanding of the relationship between synthetic phenolic antioxidants and early pregnancy loss: Uncovering the potential molecular mechanisms

Mounting evidence suggests that environmental pollutants may affect reproductive health, potentially leading to adverse outcomes like pregnancy loss. However, it remains unclear whether exposure to synthetic phenolic antioxidants (SPAs) correlates with early pregnancy loss (EPL). This study explores SPA exposure's link to EPL and its potential molecular mechanisms. From 2021 to 2022, 265 early pregnant women (136 serum samples and 129 villus samples) with and without EPL were enrolled. We quantified 17 SPAs in serum and chorionic villus, with AO1010, AO3114, BHT, AO2246, and BHT-Q frequently being detected, suggesting their ability to cross the placental barrier. AO1135 showed a positive relationship with EPL in sera, indicating a significant monotonic dose-response relationship (p-trend <0.001). BHT-Q exhibited a similar relationship with EPL in villi. Inhibitory effects of BHT-Q on estradiol (E2) were observed. Molecular docking revealed SPA-protein interactions involved in E2 synthesis. SPA-induced EPL might occur with specific serum levels of AO1135 and certain villus levels of AO1010, BHT-Q, and AO2246. BHT-Q emerges as a potential biomarker for assessing EPL risk. This study provides insights into understanding of the exposure to SPAs and potential adverse outcomes in pregnant women.