Recent advancements in the understanding of how sperm develop into offspring have shown complex interactions between environmental influences and genetic factors. The past decade, marked by a research surge, has not only highlighted the profound impact of paternal contributions on fertility and reproductive outcomes but also revolutionized our comprehension by unveiling how parental factors sculpt traits in successive generations through mechanisms that extend beyond traditional inheritance patterns. Studies have shown that offspring are more susceptible to environmental factors, especially during critical phases of growth. While these factors are broadly detrimental to health, their effects are especially acute during these periods. Moving beyond the immutable nature of the genome, the epigenetic profile of cells emerges as a dynamic architecture. This flexibility renders it susceptible to environmental disruptions. The primary objective of this review is to shed light on the diverse processes through which environmental agents affect male reproductive capacity. Additionally, it explores the consequences of paternal environmental interactions, demonstrating how interactions can reverberate in the offspring. It encompasses direct genetic changes as well as a broad spectrum of epigenetic adaptations. By consolidating current empirically supported research, it offers an exhaustive perspective on the interwoven trajectories of the environment, genetics, and epigenetics in the elaborate transition from sperm to offspring.

Split notochord syndrome represents an extremely rare and pleomorphic form of spinal dysraphism characterized by a persistent communication between the endoderm and the ectoderm, resulting in splitting or deviation of the notochord. It manifests as a cleft in the dorsal midline of the body through which intestinal loops are exteriorized and even myelomeningoceles or teratomas may occur at the site. A rare variant was diagnosed on autopsy of a 23⁺⁴-week-old fetus showing a similar dorsal enteric fistula and midline protruding intestinal loops in thoracolumbar region. The anteroposterior radiograph showed a complete midline cleft in the vertebral bodies from T₁₁to L₅region, and a split in the spinal cord was further confirmed by ultrasonography. Myelomeningocele was erroneously reported on antenatal ultrasound. Thus, awareness of this rare anomaly is necessary to thoroughly evaluate the cases of such spinal defects or suspected myelomeningoceles.

Ziouziou I, et al. World J Mens Health. 2026 Jan;43:e88. https://doi.org/10.5534/wjmh.250207

Female infertility affects millions of women worldwide and is frequently caused by ovulatory disorders and uterine pathologies. Among these, endometrial abnormalities play a central role, especially in cases of embryo implantation failure during assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). Endometrial receptivity, the period during which the endometrium prepares to receive and support embryo implantation, is a complex process regulated by essential morphological, molecular, and immunological changes necessary for a successful pregnancy. This review examines the mechanisms that govern endometrial receptivity and investigates the dysfunctions that may compromise this phase. In particular, it focuses on key biomarkers of receptivity, such as estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα), integrins, and uterine immune cells, which are crucial for endometrial preparation. It provides an in-depth understanding of female reproductive physiology and the main indicators to optimize embryo transfer at the most opportune time during the menstrual cycle within medically assisted reproductive techniques. Furthermore, it explores innovative approaches, such as immunomodulation and mesenchymal stem cell therapy, which are opening new diagnostic and therapeutic horizons, offering hope to many couples facing reproductive challenges.