The potential adverse effect of 2.45 GHz microwave radiation on the testes of prenatally exposed peripubertal male rats

Abstract

Overview

This study investigates the effects of 2.45 GHz microwave radiation (MR) on the testicular development of prenatally exposed peripubertal male rats.

Methodology

• Pregnant albino rats were exposed to whole-body MR with a specific absorption rate (SAR) of 1.73 W/kg for 2 hours daily throughout pregnancy.
• Male offspring were examined postnatally at 35 days old, focusing on microstructural and cellular changes in the testes.

Findings

Exposure to MR during pregnancy induced:

• Irregular seminiferous tubule shapes and significantly reduced diameters (p<0.05).
• Decrease in germinal epithelium height (p<0.01) and germ cell disorganization.
• Formation of giant multinucleated cells and expanded interstitium (p<0.01).
• Microscopic changes, including membrane irregularities and vacuolation of cytoplasm in essential testicular cells.
• Disrupted tight junctions between Sertoli cells and increased necrotization of germ cells, highlighting severe cellular dysfunction.

Conclusion

The study concludes that prenatal MR exposure detrimentally affects testicular development, potentially compromising spermatogenic function and male reproductive health. It emphasizes the importance of minimizing exposure to potential harmful electromagnetic fields, especially during critical developmental periods.