Impact of GSM-EMW exposure on the markers of oxidative stress in fetal rat liver

Abstract

Overview

The study meticulously explores the consequential effects of continuous 24-hour prenatal exposure to Global System for Mobile Communication Electromagnetic Fields (GSM-EMFs), specifically at 900 MHz, on various biological markers in the fetal liver of rats.

Methodology

Utilizing fifty-two Sprague–Dawley pregnant rats, the research bifurcated these subjects into two groups: a control group and an exposed group. Observations and biological data collection occurred at multiple fetal developmental stages marked by days post-coitus (dpc) at 7.5, 11.5, 15.5, and 19.5 dpc.

Findings

• Significant increase in oxidative stress, as evidenced by elevated levels of malondialdehyde (MDA).
• Decrease in antioxidative enzymes, such as cytosolic and mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (cytoSOD and mitoSOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as mRNA expression levels in various vital markers.
• The study also illustrated a significant dip in protein kinase B (Akt1), a crucial player in cellular pathways.
• Intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) mRNA expression, indicating inflammatory changes, was also notably decreased.

Conclusion

It is evident from the study that GSM-EMF exposure leads to marked oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in fetal rat livers, intensifying as the pregnancy progresses, though initial protection mechanisms by the mother are indicated. This highlights a significant health risk associated with EMF exposure during the sensitive developmental stages.