Histopathologic effects of mobile phone radiation exposure on the testes and sperm parameters: a systematic literature review of animal studies

Authors: Assefa EM, Abdu SM

Year: 2025 Jan 17

Category: Reproductive Health, Toxicology

Journal: Frontiers in Reproductive Health

DOI: 10.3389/frph.2024.1515166

URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/reproductive-health/articles/10.3389/frph.2024.1515166

Abstract

Overview

Male infertility is a growing concern worldwide and is often caused by inadequate production of healthy, active sperm. Recent evidence suggests that electromagnetic radiation (EMR) emitted from mobile phones can disrupt normal spermatogenesis, leading to decreased sperm quality.

Key Points:

  • 📱 Mobile phone radiation is linked to damage in Leydig cells, seminiferous tubules, and sperm cells.
  • 🔬 This systematic review aimed to identify histopathological changes in the testes and examine effects on sperm parameters in experimental animals.

Methods

An extensive literature search was conducted through major databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Hinari, and Google Scholar to collect relevant animal studies.

Findings

  • Screened 752 studies, with 18 meeting criteria for data extraction.
  • Identified testicular tissue alterations from mobile phone radiation, such as:
    • Reduced seminiferous tubule diameter
    • Decreased tunica albuginea and germinal epithelial thickness
    • Leydig cell hypoplasia
    • Increased intertubular space
  • Chronic mobile phone exposure resulted in significantly:
    • Decreased sperm count, motility, and viability
    • Increased abnormal sperm morphology
    🧬 These effects were observed in male rats, mice, and rabbits.

Conclusion

  • Animal studies demonstrate that electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones adversely affects testicular tissues and critical sperm parameters (count, motility, viability, morphology).
  • Preventive measures are strongly advised to minimize risks associated with mobile phone exposure.
  • Further research is required to comprehensively understand these effects in humans.
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