Changes in pyramidal and granular neuron numbers in rat hippocampus 7 days after exposure to continuous 900-MHz EMF during early and mid-adolescence

Abstract

Overview

The study explores the effects of a continuous 900-megahertz (MHz) electromagnetic field (EMF) on the rat hippocampus. This research specifically investigates changes in neuron structures following prolonged EMF exposure during early to mid adolescence.

Methodology

Healthy three-week-old male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control, pseudo-exposed, and EMF-exposed groups. The EMF group was subjected to a 900-MHz electromagnetic field in a specialized cage for one hour each day over a period of 25 days.

Findings

• A higher count of pyramidal and granule neurons was noted in the hippocampus of the EMF group compared to the pseudo-exposed group.
• Histopathological analysis revealed significant cellular disruption in neurons of the EMF group, highlighted by intense staining around the cytoplasm, with artifacts visible in specific hippocampal regions.
• No significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of body or brain weight, or environmental conditions within the cages.

Conclusion

This research indicates a potential risk to neuronal cellular integrity upon exposure to EMF, suggesting that high-frequency electromagnetic fields could alter neurodevelopment or normal neuronal functions in adolescent rats.