Abstract

Overview

The current study explores the impact of continuous exposure to global system for mobile communication electromagnetic fields (GSM-EMFs) on fetal rat livers. Emphasis was placed on understanding the biochemical and molecular disturbances occurring during critical phases of fetal development.

Methodology

A total of fifty-two pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats were used, divided into control and exposed groups. The fetal rats were exposed to 900 MHZ GSM-EMFs for 24 hours/day. Observations were conducted at various critical gestational milestones: 7.5, 11.5, 15.5, and 19.5 days post coitus (dpc).

Findings

• Increased oxidative stress was indicated by heightened levels of malondialdehyde (MDA).
• Significant reduction in antioxidants such as cytosolic and mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (cytoSOD and mitoSOD) and catalase (CAT).
• Decrease in the mRNA expression of hepatic nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2), protein kinase B (Akt1), and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) noted particularly at 15.5 dpc.
• Diminished activity of mitoSOD and CAT was consistent across all studied fetal stages.

Conclusion

While initial stages of development appear to be shielded by maternal factors against oxidative, apoptotic, and pro-inflammatory changes due to GSM-EMR exposure, this protection diminishes at more sensitive developmental stages, necessitating intrinsic protective responses from the embryos themselves.