Oxidative damage in the liver and brain of the rats exposed to frequency-dependent radiofrequency electromagnetic exposure: Biochemical and histopathological evidence

Authors: Anjali Sharma, Sadhana Shrivastava, Sangeeta Shukla

Year: 2021 Aug 17

Category: Toxicology

Journal: Free Radic Res

Institution: Free Radic Res

DOI: 10.1080/10715762.2021.1966001

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34404322/

Abstract

Overview

The study aimed to discover the impact of frequency-dependent radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on the liver and brain of Wistar rats. This investigation was significant in demonstrating health risks from RF-EMR with a focus on systemic injury, specifically oxidative damage which is a critical indicator of long-term health implications.

Methodology

Using 40 Wistar rats, divided into control and EMR-exposed groups, frequencies of 900, 1800, and 2100 MHz were administered. Measurements included specific absorption rates and power densities for each frequency, with exposures of 1 hour per day, over a month.

Findings

  • Frequency-dependent toxicity was observed with significant changes in hematologic and blood chemistry parameters.
  • Elevated risk indicators such as serum transaminases, bilirubin, urea, uric acid, and creatinine were reported, alongside decreased albumin after EMR exposure.
  • Noticeable increases in blood glucose, lipid peroxidation, triglycerides, and cholesterol were found.
  • Significant reduction in antioxidants such as glutathione and enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase were documented.
  • Severe degenerative changes in both liver and brain tissues, with the brain showing higher susceptibility to damage.

Conclusion

This study provides crucial evidence that frequency of exposure to RF-EMR escalates the degree of oxidative damage, thus proving the increased health risks associated with higher frequencies of EMR. These findings advocate the need for further investigation into the systemic injuries caused by electromagnetic radiations and serve as a basis for setting exposure standards to protect health.

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