Abstract

Overview

The aim of this study is to investigate the negative impacts of microwave radiation (MR) at a frequency of 2.45 GHz on the testicular development of rats that were exposed to MR prenatally through whole-body exposure.

Findings

• Exposure involved whole-body microwave radiation of 2.45 GHz and a specific absorption rate of 1.73 W/kg applied to pregnant albino rats for 2 hours daily during pregnancy.
• Male offspring were examined postnatally on day 35, with findings showing a significant alteration in testicular structure.
• Structural changes include irregular seminiferous tubules, decreased seminiferous tubules diameter, and expansion of the interstitium.
• Cellular damage was observed at the microscopic level among Sertoli cells, germ cells, and Leydig cells.
• The prenatal exposure led to reduced germ cell proliferation and increased necrotizations, as confirmed by analyses indicating oxidative damage-mediated injury.

Conclusion

The findings highlight a profound adverse effect on the testicular development due to prenatal microwave radiation exposure, potentially affecting male reproductive functions later in life. The importance of minimizing exposure to RF-MR during critical development phases is emphasized to protect reproductive health.