Histopathological and epigenetic alterations in the spinal cord due to prenatal electromagnetic field exposure: An H3K27me3-related mechanism

Abstract

Overview

Neural system development is a pivotal stage in embryogenesis, susceptible to genetic and environmental disruptions. This study focuses on prenatal exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and its potential detrimental impact on spinal cord development.

Findings

• Research involved exposing pregnant rats to a 900 MHz EMF for one hour daily, from embryonic day 13.5 until birth.
• Postnatal day 32, specimens from both exposed and control groups were processed for histological analysis.
• Key techniques used included hematoxylin and eosin staining for general histology, cresyl violet for neuron quantitation, and immunofluorescence for H3K27me3 protein levels.
• Exposed group showed structural alterations in spinal cord ependymal cells, enlarged central canals, and degeneration in motor neurons compared to the normal appearance of control group tissues.
• Notably, reduced H3K27me3 staining in EMF exposed group correlates with diminished neural stem cell potential and subsequent anatomical and structural spinal anomalies.

Conclusion

This study elucidates a potential molecular mechanism underlying the adverse effects of prenatal EMF exposure on spinal development, hinting at an H3K27me3-related pathway.