The histological investigation of the effects of electromagnetic radiation on rat ovaries

Abstract

Overview

With increasing use of mobile phones, people are being exposed to higher levels of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Concerns are rising regarding the possible health effects, particularly in relation to reproductive health.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the impact of exposure to EMR (4.5 GB; 2600 MHz) emitted by mobile phones on rat ovaries.

Methods

• 18 adult female Wistar albino rats divided into three groups (control, stand-by, dialing; n = 6 each).
• Experimental groups subjected to 4.5 GB EMR at 2600 MHz in standby mode and during 10-minute calls every hour, for 8 weeks.
• Control group received no EMR exposure.
• Histomorphological examinations using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining of ovarian tissues were performed.
• Immunoexpression studies for Beclin-1 (autophagy), Caspase-3 (apoptosis), FSH (ovarian reserve), and iNOS (oxidative stress) were also conducted.

Findings

• Microscopic examination showed follicular degeneration in the ovaries of both stand-by and dialing EMR-exposed groups.
• Beclin-1, Caspase-3, FSH, and iNOS were expressed in granulosa cells and corpus luteum from exposed groups.
• Significant increase in Beclin-1 and Caspase-3 (dialing group versus others) indicating heightened autophagy and apoptosis.
• iNOS and FSH levels were also elevated in EMR-exposed groups compared to controls.

Conclusion

Results demonstrate that EMR exposure negatively affects rat ovaries, involving increased autophagy and apoptosis. These findings contribute to the growing evidence that EMF exposure is linked to health risks, specifically reproductive toxicity, and supports the need for EMF safety considerations regarding mobile phone use.