The neuroprotective effects of baobab and black seed on the rat hippocampus exposed to a 900-MHz electromagnetic field

Authors: Mohamed H, Deniz OG, Kaplan S

Year: 2024 Mar 4

Category: Neuroscience

Journal: J Chem Neuroanat

DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2024.102405

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38447905/

Abstract

Overview

This research explored the impact of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) similar to those emitted by mobile phones on the rat hippocampus, with a focus on evaluating whether the natural substances baobab (Adansonia digitata, AD) and black seed (Nigella sativa, BS) could offer neuroprotective effects.

Methods

  • Fifty-six male, 12-week-old Wistar albino rats were divided into eight groups.
  • Groups included: control (no EMF), AD only, BS only, Sham (no EMF exposure but placed in system), EMF+AD, EMF+BS, EMF+AD+BS, and EMF only.
  • Rats in EMF groups were exposed to a 900-MHz electromagnetic field for 1 hour daily for 28 days.
  • Pyramidal neurons in the hippocampus were counted using optical fractionator stereology.
  • Histopathological analysis using light and electron microscopy was conducted, and antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, SOD) were measured in blood serum.

Findings

  • Stereological counts showed no significant difference in hippocampal neuron numbers between EMF-exposed, control, or sham groups (p>0.05).
  • Significant differences were found between the control group and both the AD (p<0.01) and BS (p<0.05) groups.
  • Exposure to 900-MHz EMF induced notable adverse changes in neuron structures on histopathology.
  • Qualitative data suggested that both AD and BS, especially in combination, offered protection against EMF-related side-effects.

Conclusion

It was concluded that using appropriate quantities of natural antioxidants—such as those contained in baobab and black seed—may inhibit or mitigate the harmful effects of EMF radiation on neurons in the brain. The study advises protecting the population, especially children, from EMF radiation commonly emitted by mobile phones. The authors emphasize the novel finding of this combined antioxidant approach on the EMF-exposed rat hippocampus and call for further research into antioxidant mechanisms, varying methods, doses, and exposure durations.

Importantly, this study directly links EMF exposure to adverse neurostructural changes, supporting the understanding that such radiation can cause harm, and underscores the urgent need for precautions regarding EMF safety.

electromagnetic fields hippocampus oxidative stress antioxidants mobile phones baobab black seed
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