Effect of WiFi signal exposure in utero and early life on neurodevelopment and behaviors of rats

Authors: Wu H, Min D, Sun B, Ma Y, Chen H, Wu J, Ren P, Wu J, Cao Y, Zhao B, Wang P.

Year: 2023 Aug 10

Category: Environmental Science

Journal: Environ Sci Pollut Res Int

DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29159-4

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37561300/

Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the long-term effects of WiFi exposure from prenatal stages through early life on Wistar rats, analyzing neurodevelopment, behaviors, and biochemical changes.

Methodology

  • Two groups of pregnant rats: a control and a WiFi-exposed group, each containing 12 rats.
  • WiFi exposure was continuous (24 hours/day) from the first day of pregnancy until the 42nd postnatal day.

Findings

  • Increased body weight observed in WiFi-exposed male offspring.
  • Spatial learning and memory functions improved in WiFi-exposed male rats, with no significant neuro-behavioral development changes in the whole group.
  • Enhanced levels of BDNF and p-CREB proteins in the hippocampus of the WiFi-exposed male group.
  • No detected neuronal loss or degeneration in the hippocampal regions.
  • Apoptotic protein levels and antioxidant activities (GSH-PX, SOD) were unaltered, showing no oxidative damage.

Conclusion

Prenatal WiFi exposure did not affect the overall neurodevelopment or oxidative balance in the brain but showed selective effects enhancing weight and cognitive function in male rats specifically, which highlights a potential sex-dependent vulnerability to WiFi signals. It is therefore crucial to consider these findings in discussions of electromagnetic field (EMF) safety and regulations.

WiFi neurodevelopment prenatal exposure rat behavior biochemical alterations oxidative stress
← Back to Stats