Figure 2.

Schematic illustration of the effects of carbamates on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis. Exposure to carbamates leads to inhibition of kisspeptin neurons and, consequently, to low levels of GnRH in the hypothalamus. In this sense, the synthesis of LH and FSH in the anterior pituitary is arrested. Finally, the synthesis of steroid hormones in the testis is compromised, leading to male fertility problems. Abbreviations: GnRH—gonadotropin-releasing hormone; LH—luteinizing hormone; FSH—follicle stimulating hormone.