Pre and postnatal exposure to 900 MHz electromagnetic fields induce inflammation and oxidative stress, and alter renin-angiotensin system components

Abstract

Overview

The recent study aims to explore the biological effects of 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure on inflammation, oxidative stress, and renin-angiotensin system components in both brain and kidney tissues of prenatally and postnatally exposed male and female rats. This investigation is particularly relevant due to the increasing use of mobile phones and the prevalent GSM 900 system.

Methods

Male and female Wistar albino offspring were divided into four groups: control, prenatal, postnatal, and combined prenatal and postnatal exposure. Exposure consisted of 900 MHz EMF for 1 hour daily, over 23 days during pregnancy for the prenatal group and 40 days after birth for the postnatal group. Tissue samples from the brain and kidneys were collected at puberty.

Findings

• Significant increases in total oxidant status and pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-2, IL-6, and TNF-α across all EMF exposed groups.
• Decrease in total antioxidant status, indicating heightened oxidative stress.
• Elevation in renin-angiotensin system components including angiotensinogen, renin, angiotensin type 1 and type 2 receptors, and MAS1-like G protein-coupled receptor expressions were noted in exposed groups.
• Gender-based differences were observed in the levels of pro-inflammatory markers, reactive oxygen species components, and renin-angiotensin system components, though the overall trend showed increased levels in all exposed groups.

Conclusion

The exposure to 900 MHz EMF appears to activate the renin-angiotensin system in the brain and kidneys, potentially linked to the resultant inflammation and oxidative stress observed in male and female rat offspring.