Effects of microwave at 2.45 GHz radiations on reproductive system of male rats

Abstract

Radio frequency and microwave radiations are a part of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiations present in the environment and are now being perceived as health risks. The present study was performed to investigate the effect of 2.45 GHz microwave radiation on reproductive pattern of male Wistar rats. Animals were exposed at 2.45 GHz frequency with 0.34 mW cm−2 power density continuously for 2 h day−1 for 35 days, where the whole body specific absorption rate was 0.11 W kg−1. Exposure occurred in a ventilated plexiglass cage and kept in anechoic chamber at a distance of 2 m from the horn antenna. In the present study, apoptosis was tested using terminal deoxynucleotide transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. Normal and apoptotic sperm cells were also quantified by flow cytometry. Antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT)) were also determined to confirm any mutagenic effects, such as DNA fragmentation. Chronic exposure to these radiations produced formation of apoptotic cells in testis. In addition, a significant decrease in the levels of GPx, and SOD activities as well as an increase in CAT activity was observed in the exposed group. These results indicate that a low level exposure of microwave radiations exerts a negative impact on male reproductive system function.