Endocrine Abstracts

Background: Exposure to environmental radiation can cause stress and cumulative effect of such stress leads to DNA strand brake. Testicular function is particularly susceptible to radiation emitted by electromagnetic fields. Reports of declining male fertility have renewed interest in the role of environmental and occupational exposures in the aetiology of human infertility.

Objectives: The aim of the present work was to investigate the effect of 10 GHz exposure on male albino rat’s reproductive system and to find out the possible causative factor for such effect of exposure.

Methods: The study was carried out on 70 days old adult male albino rats and divided into two groups: a sham exposed and 10 GHz exposed group. By the end of the experimental period, blood samples were collected for estimation of testosterone. Sperm sample extracted from the cauda and caput part of testis for the analysis of MDA, melatonin, creatine kinase. The effects of combined exposure of electromagnetic fields on testicular function were examined on the testis through histomorphometric analysis with respect to sham exposed.

Results: Testosterone examination of electromagnetic field exposure group revealed loss of normal level of hormone while creatine kinase result reveal an increased level of phosphorylation that convert creatine to creatine phosphate. Our data reflect an appreciable increase in sperm creatine kinase activity and a reflect depletion in motility of sperm. EMF also declines the activities of melatonin and MDA.

Conclusion: Thus, microwave exposure adversely affects male fertility and has an injurious effect on the fertility potential of male exposed animals. Exposure of EMF reduces the bioavailability of androgen to maturing spermatozoa lead to infertility.

Declaration of interest: There is no conflict of interest that could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported.

Funding: No specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sector.