Comparing the Effects of Long-term Exposure to Extremely Low-frequency Electromagnetic Fields With Different Values on Learning, Memory, Anxiety, and β-amyloid Deposition in Adult Rats
Abstract
Overview
Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields (ELF-EMFs) have been a point of significant concern for their potential pathogenic impacts. This study investigates the effects of ELF-EMFs at various intensities on several neurological and physiological functions in adult rats.
Methods
- Fifty male adult rats were divided into 5 groups; four exposed to ELF-EMFs at flux densities of 1, 100, 500, and 2000 microtesla (µT) at a frequency of 50 Hz for one hour per day over two months, and one control group without ELF-EMF stimulation.
- Memory and anxiety-like behavior were measured using passive avoidance and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) tests. Other assays included measurements of total free thiol groups, lipid peroxidation, β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition, and microglia population indexing.
Findings
- Significant improvements in memory retention were observed in groups exposed to 100 µT - 2000 µT compared to the control group.
- Anxiety-like behavior increased specifically in the 2000 µT group.
- No β-amyloid depositions were detected in any of the groups, and an increase in microglia numbers was noted in 100 µT, 500 µT, and 2000 µT groups.
Conclusion
Exposure to ELF-EMF at certain levels can induce specific changes in neuroscience-related behaviors and physiological responses like memory enhancement and increased anxiety, oxidative stress responses, and changes in microglia populations. These findings underscore potential health risks associated with ELF-EMFs.