Effects of 5G radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation on indicators of vitality and DNA integrity of in vitro exposed boar semen

Authors: Butkovic I, Vince S, Lojkic M, Folno�ic I, Tur SM, Vilic M, Malaric K, Berta V, Samard�ija M, Kreszinger M, �aja I�

Year: 2024 Sep 25

Category: Reproductive Biology

Journal: Theriogenology

DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.09.025

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39342826/

Abstract

Overview

Concerns have arisen regarding the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on semen quality, though prior research has shown contradictory results. Notably, the impact of RF-EMR may depend on frequency, and there is a lack of literature specifically addressing the effects of 5G frequencies on DNA integrity and vitality in male spermatozoa. This study aimed to evaluate how 5G RF-EMR affects sperm membrane integrity, mitochondrial potential, and DNA integrity using in vitro-exposed boar semen.

Methods

  • Semen from eight Pietren and four German Landrace breeding boars (1.5 to 3.5 years old) was collected and split into control (n=12) and experimental groups (n=12).
  • The experimental samples were exposed for 2 hours to continuous RF-EMR at specific 5G-related frequencies: 700 MHz, 2500 MHz, and 3500 MHz, at a field strength of 10 V/m.
  • Sperm DNA fragmentation was measured with a Halomax® kit; membrane integrity and mitochondrial potential were analyzed with the PI/SYBR-14 LIVE/DEAD viability kit and JC-1 dye.

Findings

  • Exposed semen samples exhibited a significantly higher proportion of spermatozoa with DNA fragmentation across all frequencies compared to controls.
  • The highest DNA damage was detected at 2500 MHz (p < 0.01) and 3500 MHz (p < 0.05) compared to control samples.
  • Exposing samples to 3500 MHz resulted in more spermatozoa with compromised cell membranes but good mitochondrial potential.

Conclusion

Exposure of breeding boar semen to 5G RF-EMR significantly increases DNA fragmentation and affects spermatozoa vitality in a frequency-dependent manner. Notably, the 3500 MHz frequency had the most harmful effects, substantially impacting both DNA integrity and key indicators of vitality. These findings highlight a concrete link between electromagnetic field exposure at 5G frequencies and reproductive health risk, emphasizing the importance of EMF safety considerations.

5G RF-EMR DNA fragmentation sperm vitality electromagnetic fields boar semen reproductive toxicity
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