Bisphenol AP inhibits mouse oocyte maturation in vitro by disrupting cytoskeleton architecture and cell cycle processes

Bisphenol A (BPA) is among the extensively researched environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and its utilization is restricted owing to the detrimental impacts it has on human health. Bisphenol AP (BPAP) is one of the alternatives to BPA, but the influence of BPAP on human health has not been elucidated. The objective of the current research was to determine the influence of BPAP exposure on the in vitro maturation of mouse oocytes and to explore its potential reproductive toxicity. BPAP exposure was found to inhibit polar body extrusion during mouse oocyte maturation, resulting in an arrest at the metaphase I stage of meiosis. Exposure to BPAP led to sustained activation of BubR1, preventing the degradation of both Securin and Cyclin B1. Mechanistically, BPAP exposure disrupts spindle assembly and chromosome alignment. Levels of acetylated α-tubulin were significantly elevated in BPAP-treated oocytes, reflecting decreased spindle stability. Exposure to BPAP also induced DNA damage and impaired DNA damage repair. In addition, BPAP exposure altered histone modification levels. In summary, this investigation suggests that exposure to BPAP can influence cytoskeletal assembly, interfere with cell cycle progression, induce DNA damage, alter histone modifications, and ultimately impede oocyte meiotic maturation. This investigation enhances understanding of the impact of bisphenol analogs on female gametes, underscoring that BPAP cannot be considered a reliable replacement for BPA.