Protective role of gallic acid in sperm health and environmentally induced male infertility: A narrative review of human-relevant and translational preclinical studies.

Male infertility has become a growing global concern due to the decline in sperm quality, largely influenced by environmental toxins, aging, and lifestyle factors. This comprehensive review investigates the potential protective effects of gallic acid (GA), a natural phenolic compound, against various forms of male infertility. GA's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties are explored in the context of sperm health and reproductive dysfunctions induced by environmental toxins, oxidative stress, and drug treatments. The paper highlights preclinical studies demonstrating GA's ability to improve sperm quality, enhance testicular function, and restore hormonal balance. Key findings show that GA can mitigate testicular damage, reduce oxidative stress, and promote spermatogenesis in response to stressors such as chemotherapy, phthalates, and nicotine exposure. Moreover, GA's potential in sperm cryopreservation and fertility preservation is also examined. This review emphasizes the therapeutic promise of GA as a natural agent in supporting male reproductive health and offers insight into its molecular mechanisms. These data collectively justify immediate clinical translation, specifically, well-controlled phase I/II trials that define GA's optimal dose, safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy on validated reproductive endpoints.