Exposure to a 0.9-GHz electromagnetic field on postnatal days 21-45 may trigger the renin-angiotensin system in male rat: a histological and biochemical study

Abstract

Overview

This study investigates the relationship between the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and the histological and biochemical changes in the kidney tissue of male rats exposed to a 0.9 GHz electromagnetic field (EMF).

• Twelve male rats aged 21 days were divided into a control group (C-Gr) and an EMF-exposed group (EMF-Gr).
• The EMF-Gr group was exposed to a 0.9 GHz EMF for one hour per day from postnatal days 21 to 45 (25 days total).
• Tissues were analyzed at the end of the experiment using biochemical and histopathological methods.

Findings

• EMF exposure resulted in increased kidney tissue volume, kidney weight, and total body weight.
• Increased levels of lipid peroxidation, glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase were observed in kidney tissue of EMF-exposed rats.
• Histopathological changes included:
  • Cortical/medullary bleeding and obstruction
  • Widespread fibrosis, dilatation, vacuolization, and degeneration in distal and proximal tubules
  • Decreased and atypical parietal cells and degeneration in epithelial cells
  • Dilated and degenerated glomeruli in the Malpighian body
  • Bowman's membrane degeneration and degeneration in the vascular pole, podocyte, pedicel, and mesangial cells
• Exposure to EMF led to oxidative stress, increased tissue volume and weight, and significant histopathological changes that collectively triggered activation of the RAS in kidney tissues.

Conclusion

Long-term exposure to 0.9 GHz EMF can activate the renin-angiotensin system in the kidney of rats. This activation is likely linked to structural, histopathological, and biochemical changes in renal tissue. These findings clearly indicate a connection between EMF exposure and adverse changes in organ systems, highlighting potential health risks.