Effectiveness of Omega-3 Fatty Acid in Protection from Magnetic Field Exposure During Pregnancy: An Experimental Rat Study

Abstract

Overview

This experimental study examines the protective effects of omega-3 fatty acids against magnetic field (MF) exposure during pregnancy, using Wistar Albino rats as a model.

Study Design

• Thirty pregnant rats were divided into three groups: a control (sham) group, a group exposed to 20 μT MF for 1 hour/day for 10 days, and another group exposed for 4 hours/day for 10 days.
• Blood samples were analyzed for adenosine deaminase enzyme (ADA) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) on days 1, 10, and 17, with neurodegeneration scores assessed via microscopic examination.

Findings

The study demonstrated significant neurodegeneration in rats exposed to long-term MF compared to those subjected to short-term exposure. Both short- and long-term MF exposure resulted in increased ADA activity and decreased TSH levels compared to the sham group. Notably, omega-3 application led to positive modifications in myelin degeneration in both MF-exposed groups.

Conclusion

Exposure to MFs increases both ADA and TSH levels, influencing fetal neural degeneration. Omega-3 fatty acids provide significant protection against MF-induced neurodegenerative changes, specifically under short-term exposure conditions. This emphasizes the potential health risks associated with MF exposure during pregnancy and the possible therapeutic role of omega-3 supplementation.