Abstract

Overview

Shortwave radiation has been reported to have harmful effects on several organs in humans and animals. This study specifically investigates the impact of 27 MHz shortwave radiation on the male reproductive system.

Methodology

Male Wistar rats were subjected to whole-body exposure of 27 MHz shortwave radiation at varying power densities. The experiment aimed to observe structural and functional changes in the testis over different time frames following exposure.

Findings

• Decrease in serum levels of insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) and sperm motility.
• Increase in anti-sperm antibodies (AsAb) and sperm malformation rates.
• Deterioration in testicular tissue structure.
• Alterations in antioxidant enzyme activities and increase in oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA).
• Enhanced expression of calpain1, calpain2, and Cdk5 in testicular tissues.

Conclusion

The exposure to shortwave radiation resulted in functional and structural impairments to the reproductive organs of male rats. Key molecular pathways such as oxidative stress and the calpain/Cdk5 pathway were implicated in the damages observed.