Effects of exposure to ELF-EMF on spatial & passive avoidance learning & memory, anxiety-like behavior & oxidative stress in male rats

Authors: Asaad Karimi S, Salehi I, Shykhi T, Zare S, Komaki A

Year: 2018 Oct 2

Category: Neuroscience

Journal: Behav Brain Res

DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.10.002

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30290199

Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the health impacts of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) on cognitive performance and well-being in male rats, amidst ongoing controversies regarding their safety.

Methodology

Seventy-two adult male Wistar rats were divided into control, sham exposure group, and several ELF-EMF exposure groups with varying dosages (1 µT, 100 µT, 500 µT, and 2000 µT). The animals were exposed for 60 days to ELF-EMF for 2 hours each day.

Findings

  • In spatial memory tests, rats exposed to 100 and 2000 µT showed enhanced memory retention.
  • ELF-EMF exposure affected anxiety-like behavior and increased oxidative stress markers.
  • The concentration of Malondialdehyde (MDA), an important marker of oxidative stress, was significantly raised in groups exposed to 100 and 500 µT.

Conclusion

This research suggests that while ELF-EMF exposure might enhance memory retention capabilities, it potentially contributes to increased anxiety and higher oxidative stress, indicating possible health risks from ELF-EMF exposure.

ELF-EMF spatial learning anxiety-like behavior oxidative stress Wistar rats
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