Abstract

Overview

The widespread use of mobile phones has significantly increased human exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR), raising concerns about potential health effects, particularly in reproductive health. This study investigates the impact of EMR emitted by mobile phones on rat ovaries.

Methods

• 18 adult female Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups: control, stand-by, and dialing.
• EMR exposure levels were 4.5 GB at 2600 MHz, with 10-minute calls every hour for 8 weeks.
• Control group rats were not exposed to EMR.
• Histological analysis was performed using Hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining.
• Markers such as Beclin-1, Caspase-3 for apoptosis, FSH for ovarian reserve, and iNOS for oxidative stress were investigated.

Findings

• Microscopic examinations revealed follicular degeneration in ovaries of rats from stand-by and dialing groups.
• Increased immunoexpression of Beclin-1 and Caspase-3 in the dialing group compared to controls and stand-by groups.
• Increased expressions of iNOS and FSH in both EMR-exposed groups compared to control.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that exposure to EMR can harm ovarian tissues, contributing to processes like autophagy and apoptosis. Further studies are required to fully understand the implications on human reproductive health.