Reacción a "Grandparents' exposure to environmental chemicals could influence their granddaughters' first menstruation"

In recent years, various experimental studies have indicated that exposure to certain toxic compounds (pesticides, industrial chemicals, etc.) could underlie the phenomenon of a reduction in the average age of menarche or first menstruation. In this context, although most studies published to date have focused on direct or maternal exposure, the summary of the work presented at the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society in San Francisco (USA) goes further and provides new evidence on the intergenerational impact of these environmental exposures.

Using advanced metabolomics techniques, which allow for the mass analysis of metabolites present in biological samples, this research identifies complex associations between certain blood markers—especially in grandparents and parents—and earlier puberty in their daughters and granddaughters. Thus, the observed reduction of a full year in the average age of menarche among daughters and granddaughters could reinforce the hypothesis that environmental factors not only affect those who are directly exposed, but can also be transmitted and amplified in future generations, possibly through epigenetic mechanisms. The results also highlight the influence of the male lineage in the transmission of endocrine risks to female offspring, as well as the role played in this process by key metabolites such as tryptophan, fumarate and succinate.

Pending the publication of the full study, in order to thoroughly assess the methodology and reliability of the results and, therefore, their strengths and limitations, it can be said that these results open a promising avenue for future research on women's health and inherited environmental exposures. This molecular approach complements previous theories of environmental and socio-genetic transmission by focusing on specific metabolic pathways. Furthermore, exploration of this interesting field of research could have important implications for public health policies in relation to the alarming current exposure to endocrine disruptors that the scientific community has been warning about in recent decades.

The press release presents the main findings of the study in a clear and accessible manner, making it easy to understand for a general audience. It includes statements from the authors of the study, who highlight the novel contribution of this research regarding the importance of the male lineage in the intergenerational transmission of endocrine risks.