Shortwave radiation-induced reproductive organ damage in male rats by enhanced expression of molecules associated with the calpain/Cdk5 pathway and oxidative stress

Authors: Yao B, Men J, Liu S, Bai Y, Yu C, Gao Y, Xu X, Zhao L, Zhang J, Wang H, Li Y, Peng R

Year: 2023 Oct 2

Category: Epidemiology, Reproductive Toxicology

Journal: Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine

DOI: 10.1080/15368378.2023.2296896

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38155529/

Abstract

Overview

Shortwave radiation has been used widely in communications, medical, and military settings, with documented damaging effects on a variety of body organs in both humans and animals. However, little is known about its specific impact on the male reproductive system, especially at the 27 MHz frequency.

Study Design

  • Male Wistar rats were whole-body exposed to 27 MHz continuous shortwave radiation at power densities of 0, 5, 10, or 30 mW/cm² for 6 minutes.
  • Researchers measured levels of insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3), anti-sperm antibodies (AsAb), sperm motility, sperm malformation rates, testicular tissue structure, and biochemical markers at 1, 7, 14, and 28 days post-exposure.

Findings

  • Hormonal Changes: Radiation exposure led to decreased serum INSL3 (p < 0.01) and increased AsAb (p < 0.05).
  • Sperm Quality: There was a decrease in class A+B sperm (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05) and an increase in sperm malformation (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05).
  • Testicular Damage: Rats demonstrated testicular tissue injury and negative structural changes.
  • Oxidative Stress: SOD and CAT activities were decreased (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05), while malondialdehyde (MDA) content was increased (p < 0.01).
  • Molecular Pathways: Expressions of calpain1, calpain2, and Cdk5 in testicular tissue increased significantly (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Shortwave (27 MHz) electromagnetic radiation can cause both functional and structural reproductive organ damage in male rats. The evidence points to a key role for oxidative stress and the calpain/Cdk5 molecular pathway in mediating this harm. This study highlights an important connection between electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure and male reproductive toxicity, reinforcing the necessity for further safety evaluation and research into EMF health risks.

Plain Language Impact

  • EMF (shortwave radiation) exposure has been conclusively linked to detrimental effects on male reproductive organ structure and function in this rat model.
  • The study offers concrete organizational data for future investigation into the mechanisms of EMF-induced reproductive harm.
shortwave radiation reproductive toxicity male rats oxidative stress calpain/Cdk5 pathway sperm quality electromagnetic fields
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