Compound exposure of 2.8 GHz and 9.3 GHz microwave causes learning and memory impairment in rats

Authors: Sun L, Wang X, Ren K, Yao C, Wang H, Xu X, Wang H, Dong J, Zhang J, Yao B, Wei X, Peng R, Zhao L

Year: 2025 Jan 3

Category: Neuroscience

Journal: Heliyon

Institution: Heliyon

DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e41626

URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11760294/

Abstract

Overview

The increasing concerns regarding the health hazards of microwaves have been highlighted by several studies. This research focuses on the biological effects of compound microwave exposure on the rat hippocampus.

Methodology

Rats were sequentially exposed to 2.8 GHz and 9.3 GHz microwaves at a power density of 10 mW/cm2. Various tests and analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact, including Morris water maze (MWM) navigation tests, EEG measurements, and histopathological and molecular studies.

Findings

  • Microwave exposure significantly increased the average escape latency in MWM tests at 1 and 3 days post-exposure, indicating reduced learning and memory abilities.
  • EEG showed increased power in θ and δ waves, suggesting brain damage or dysfunction.
  • Histopathological analysis revealed significant structural injuries in the hippocampus, particularly severe in rats exposed to compound microwaves.
  • Molecular analyses suggested potential predictive indicators of microwave-induced neuronal damage, including Htt, Htra, Psen1, Tp73, and Bdnf.

Conclusion

The study concludes that exposure to 2.8 GHz and 9.3 GHz microwaves can cause reversible damage to the hippocampus, leading to impaired cognitive functions in rats. These effects are more pronounced with compound microwave exposure compared to single frequency exposure.

microwave exposure cognitive function hippocampus rat study neurobiology EEG Morris water maze
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