Prolonged 3.5 GHz and 24 GHz RF-EMF Exposure Alters Testicular Immune Balance, Apoptotic Gene Expression, and Sperm Function in Rats

Abstract

Overview

The rapid expansion of 5G technology has increased concerns about the reproductive effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), particularly at mid-band (3.5 GHz) and millimeter-wave (24 GHz) frequencies. This study investigates how RF-EMF exposure affects testicular cytokines, apoptosis-related gene expression, and sperm quality in male rats.

Methods

• Male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 6 per group) were subjected to either 3.5 GHz or 24 GHz RF-EMF exposure for 60 days.
• Exposure durations were set at 1 hour/day and 7 hours/day. Sham controls received identical housing but no exposure.
• The study measured:
  • Testicular cytokines: IL-10, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α
  • Apoptosis genes: Tp53, Bax, Bcl2, Casp3 (mRNA levels)
  • Sperm concentration, viability, and motility

Findings

• IL-10 significantly decreased in the 24 GHz-exposed groups for both 1-h and 7-h daily exposures.
• TNF-α was also reduced at 24 GHz after 7 hours of daily exposure.
• Casp3 expression increased and Tp53 decreased at 3.5 GHz (1-h duration).
• Sperm concentration and viability were diminished at 24 GHz (7-h exposure), while sperm motility dropped at 3.5 GHz at both durations.

Conclusion

Chronic RF-EMF exposure at frequencies used in 5G technology leads to impaired sperm function via immune imbalance and activation of pro-apoptotic pathways. Notably, longer daily exposure increased the severity of all negative effects. There is a clear biological link between prolonged electromagnetic field exposure and adverse male reproductive health, underlying an important EMF safety concern for public awareness and further research.