Abstract

Overview

The study explored the enhancing effects of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) on Leydig cells exposed to 1,800 MHz radiofrequency radiation.

Introduction

• Cerium oxide nanoparticles with a Ce3+/Ce4+ ratio have unique benefits in scavenging free radicals and protecting against oxidative damage.
• The study examines the role of CeO2NPs in maintaining testosterone levels amidst exposure to RF radiation.

Methods

Leydig cells were assessed after treatment with CeO2NPs at various concentrations to identify the optimal dose for enhancing cellular health and proliferation. After determining the ideal conditions, the cells underwent further testing to analyze the antioxidant responses and gene expression under RF radiation exposure.

Findings

• The optimal dose of CeO2NPs (128 μg/mL) was associated with improved cell proliferation.
• RF radiation alone led to a decline in testosterone production, antioxidant activity, and downregulated important gene expressions relating to testosterone synthesis and cellular rhythmic functions.
• Pretreatment with the selected dose of CeO2NPs substantially countered these negative effects, boosting both the antioxidative responses and testosterone synthesis, and also upregulated the expression of crucial genes.

Conclusion

Exposure to 1,800 MHz RF radiation presented noticeable health risks by disrupting testosterone synthesis and reducing antioxidant capabilities, with significant implications on clock gene activity in Leydig cells. However, pretreatment with CeO2NPs showcased a potential protective mechanism against these RF-induced damages in male reproductive cells. Continued research is needed to further understand how CeO2NPs can defend against RF exposure effects in human reproductive health.