Abstract

Overview

This study explores the protective effects of curcumin (CUR) against the adverse impacts of low-frequency electromagnetic fields (LF-EMF, 50 Hz) during the gestation period in Wistar rats.

Methodology

• 20 Wistar rats (5 males and 15 females) were mated, and pregnancy was confirmed by the presence of vaginal plaques.
• The pregnant rats were divided into six groups: EMF exposure, CUR treatment, EMF + CUR combination, DMSO solvent control, sham, and normal condition control.
• Exposure and treatments were administered over a pregnancy period of 21 days, followed by a four-week monitoring phase post-birth.

Findings

Significant findings indicate that EMF exposure solely led to increased necrosis in the hippocampal tissues and higher levels of hyperemia and necrosis in kidney tissues, as well as liver degeneration.

In contrast, groups receiving CUR exhibited notably lesser tissue damage, suggesting a protective effect of CUR against LF-EMF induced injuries.

Conclusion

The study concludes that administering a single daily dose of 50 mg/kg of CUR can effectively protect vital tissues in rat fetuses from damages typically caused by exposure to LF-EMF during pregnancy.