Effects of 4G Long-Term Evolution Electromagnetic Fields on Thyroid Hormone Dysfunction and Behavioral Changes in Adolescent Male Mice

Abstract

Overview

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) have the capability to penetrate biological tissues and are potentially influential on endocrine and brain developmental processes. This research focuses on the concern surrounding increased mobile phone use among children and adolescents and its long-term effects on brain and endocrine health.

Methodology

The study involved four-week-old male C57BL/6 mice which were exposed to LTE EMF with a whole-body average specific absorption rate (SAR) of 4 W/kg. A positive control group was exposed to lead (Pb, 300 ppm in drinking water) over a period of four weeks. Following exposure, behavioral tests such as open field, marble burying, and nest building were conducted.

Findings

• Blood pituitary and thyroid hormone levels were analyzed, revealing increased T3 levels in LTE exposed mice, while lead exposure influenced T3, T4, and decreased ACTH levels.
• Genetic analysis showed no changes in gene expression in the thyroid and pituitary glands for the LTE EMF group, whereas significant reductions in hypothalamic Dio2 and Dio3 expressions were observed.
• Lead exposure, in contrast, altered the hypothalamic mRNA levels of Oatp1c1 and Trh, pituitary mRNA levels of Trhr, and Tpo and Tg expression in the thyroid.

Conclusion

LTE EMF exposure specifically altered hypothalamic Dio2 and Dio3 expressions, which could potentially impact the hypothalamus–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis functionality. The study underscores the need for further research to ascertain the broader impacts of RF-EMF on the endocrine system.