Exposure of the scrotum to 4G cellphone radiofrequency radiation affects spermatogenesis and blood-testis barrier of adult male rats

Authors: Qing Cheng, Gang Yu, Gang Wang, Zhi-Ming Bai

Year: 2021 Aug

Category: Radiobiology

Journal: Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue

Institution: Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34914238/

Abstract

Overview

The study explores the direct effects of 4G cellphone radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on the reproductive health of adult male rats, focusing specifically on the testicular region.

Methods

  • Thirty adult male SD rats were divided into two groups: a control group and an exposure group.
  • The exposure group was subjected to 4G cellphone RF-EMR for six hours daily over a period of 150 days.

Findings

  • Significant decreases were noted in sperm concentration, viability, motility, and morphologically normal sperm percentage in the exposure group compared to controls.
  • There was also a reduction in antioxidant enzymes and down-regulation of key proteins involved in maintaining the blood-testis barrier.

Conclusion

Exposure to 4G cellphone RF-EMR results in testicular damage, disruption of the blood-testis barrier, and a decrease in semen quality, which may lead to reduced fertility in male rats. This raises concerns about the potential health risks of long-term exposure to RF-EMR from mobile phones.

electromagnetic radiation spermatogenesis male fertility RF-EMR rodent study semen quality blood-testis barrier
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