Abstract

Overview

Investigations into the chronic effects of electromagnetic radiations (EMR) from common sources like cell phones and Wi-Fi are limited. This study explores the long-term impacts of EMR exposure on rats, focusing on anxiety disorders and cellular effects.

Findings

• Exposure to EMR at 2450 MHz across 28 days showed a significant induction of anxiety-like behaviors in male rats.
• Notable deregulation in the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis was observed, evidenced by altered corticosterone levels and decreased expression of corticotrophin releasing hormone-2 (CRH-2) and Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the amygdala.
• Impairments in mitochondrial function and integrity were recorded, along with altered apoptosis regulation. This includes increases in Bax:Bcl2 ratio and activation of apoptotic factors leading to neuronal cell decline in the amygdalar region.
• Further histopathological studies confirmed significant neuronal cell decrease in the amygdala, indicating both necrotic and apoptotic cell death post-EMR exposure.

Conclusion

The research clearly denotes the detrimental effects of long-term exposure to 2450 MHz EMR, acting as a significant stressor and leading to anxiety-like behaviors and severe physiological dysfunctions in exposed rats, reaffirming the potential health risks involved with EMR exposure.