Effects of phthalate exposure on human ovarian extracellular matrix composition: insights from a 3D spheroid model

Research Overview

Phthalates are ubiquitous plasticizers with known reproductive and endocrine toxicity, but how they affect ovarian function specifically has remained poorly understood. Because remodeling of the ovarian extracellular matrix is central to follicle growth, ovulation, and ovarian aging, this study used 3D spheroids derived from human ovarian stromal cells to test how an environmentally relevant phthalate mixture affects matrix components.

Spheroids were generated from both reproductive-aged and menopausal ovarian tissue and treated for four days. Collagen deposition was assessed by picrosirius red staining, with immunofluorescence used to evaluate proliferation and the deposition of collagen type VI, elastin, fibrillin-1, and EMILIN-1. Phthalate exposure significantly increased collagen deposition — a matrix-stiffening change with direct implications for follicle development.