Amelioration and Immuno-modulation by Ashwagandha on Wi-fi Induced Oxidative Stress in Regulating Reproduction Via Estrogen Receptor Alpha in Male Japanese Quail

Abstract

Overview

As global change threatens avian biodiversity, understanding species responses to environmental perturbations—particularly radiation from the increasing use of wireless communication—is urgently needed. This study examines how microwave (MW) radiation affects redox balance, stress levels, and male fertility in Japanese quail, and evaluates the protective and immuno-modulatory role of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) root extract.

Methods

• Subjects: Eight-week-old mature male Japanese quail
• Exposure: 2.4 GHz MW radiation, 2 hours per day for 30 days (power density = 0.1264 mw/cm², SAR = 0.9978 W/Kg)
• Intervention: Oral administration of Ashwagandha root extract (100 mg/kg body weight)

Findings

• Wi-fi exposure led to decreased testicular weight, volume, density, and gonado-somatic index (GSI).
• Markers of oxidative stress increased significantly, and the activities of key antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase, GSH) were reduced in testicular tissue.
• Ashwagandha supplementation increased testicular parameters and restored redox balance.
• Wi-fi exposure altered reproduction by elevating corticosterone and lowering testosterone levels, alongside reduced expression of estrogen receptor alpha (ERa).
• Pro-inflammatory responses were observed: IL-1β increased, and IL-10 decreased in the testis, contributing to impaired testicular function through increased NF-κB activity and reduced sperm count.
• Ashwagandha reversed these effects—boosting ERa expression, sperm count, and immune response, and modulating pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokine expression (decreasing IL-1β and NF-κB, increasing IL-10).

Conclusion

Exposure to Wi-fi radiation increases oxidative stress, triggers apoptosis, and disrupts immune balance in the testes, leading to adverse effects on male fertility in Japanese quail. Importantly, Ashwagandha root extract administration offers significant protective and restorative effects through immuno-modulation and regulation of estrogen receptor activity, mitigating Wi-fi-induced reproductive toxicity.