The effect of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure on synthesis and release of steroid hormones by the porcine conceptuses during the peri-implantation period

Abstract

Overview

Electrical devices and power systems are pervasive sources of EM-waves that interact with the environment, potentially influencing biological processes.

Aims

This research explores whether EMF impacts the synthesis of steroids in porcine conceptuses and evaluates if progesterone (P4) might mitigate EMF's harmful effects.

Methods

• Porcine conceptuses were harvested during days 15-16 of pregnancy and treated in vitro with varying frequencies and durations of EMF exposure.
• The study focused on assessing mRNA and protein levels involved in steroid hormone production and their release under the influence of EMF.
• Part of the investigation addressed the protective role of progesterone.

Key Results

• EMF exposure influenced androgen and estrogen levels, reducing androstenedione and testosterone release without P4 and modifying oestrone and oestradiol-17β output with P4.
• Significant alterations were observed in the steroidogenic pathway, indicating EMF's potent impact on hormone synthesis.

Conclusions

EMF radiation notably alters steroidogenic activities; specifically, it affects androgen and estrogen synthesis and release during the earth-critical peri-implantation period in pigs. Notably, while P4 presents protective properties for specific hormones, it may sensitise other synthetic pathways under EMF influence, pointing to a complex interaction between EMF radiation and biological protectants.

Implications

The disturbance in steroidogenic pathways by EMF could potentially interfere with the normal development and implantation processes of conceptuses, underscoring significant health risks associated with EMF exposure.