Effects of continuous 1-h a day 900-MHz EMF applied through early & mid-adolescence on hippocampus morphology & learning behavior in late adolescent male rats

Abstract

Overview

This study thoroughly explores the impact of exposure to a 900-MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) on the hippocampus morphology and learning behaviors in adolescent male rats.

Methodology

• Twenty-four male Sprague Dawley rats, aged three weeks, were divided equally into control, sham, and EMF groups.
• The EMF group was exposed to a 900-MHz EMF in an EMF cage for one hour daily, while the sham group had the same placement but without EMF exposure. The control group underwent no procedures.

Findings

Substantial morphological impairments were noted in the hippocampus's pyramidal and granular cell structures in the EMF-exposed group. However, no significant changes were observed in the learning, memory, or locomotor behaviors across any groups.

Conclusion

Continuous exposure to 900-MHz EMF during early to mid-adolescence does not alter learning and memory abilities, nor locomotor behavior in late adolescent male rats, despite significant hippocampal morphological alterations.