Research progress on human exposure levels and reproductive toxicity of neonicotinoids

Neonicotinoid insecticides are emerging pesticides based on the nicotine structure. Although neonicotinoids exhibit much lower mammalian toxicity than traditional insecticides do, they can be enriched through routes such as food chains and drinking water to produce adverse health effects on humans. Therefore, the potential toxicity of neonicotinoids has attracted attention. However, studies focusing on related human reproductive toxicity are limited. This paper reviewed domestic and foreign studies on human neonicotinoid exposure levels, reproductive toxicity, and plausible mechanisms, aiming to suggest the possible directions for future studies.