Effect of low-level 1800 MHz RF radiation on the rat sciatic nerve and the protective role of paricalcitol

Abstract

Overview

The study focuses on the interaction between radiofrequency (RF) radiation and the nervous system, exploring the effects of 1,800 MHz RF radiation on the rat sciatic nerve and the mitigating effects of paricalcitol.

Methodology

Subjects (rats) were divided into four groups: control, paricalcitol-only, RF-only, and RF combined with paricalcitol. The RF groups were exposed to 1,800 MHz RF for one hour daily across four weeks. The paricalcitol group was administered 0.2 μg/kg/day of the drug three times per week over the same period.

Findings

• Significant reduction in nerve compound action potential amplitude in RF-exposed rats.
• Prolongation of latency alongside increases in malondialdehyde levels and catalase activities indicating oxidative stress.
• Myelinated nerve fibers showed signs of degeneration (neuropathy).
• Paricalcitol partially ameliorated the neuropathic changes induced by RF radiation.

Conclusion

The effects of 1,800 MHz RF radiation could potentially lead to neuropathic changes through induced oxidative stress. However, treatment with paricalcitol showcased a partial reversal of these detrimental effects. This highlights the sensitivity of the nervous system to RF radiation and calls for further research into protective measures and exposure mitigation.