Evaluation of the structural changes of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields on brain and testes of adult male mice

ABSTRACT

The increasing number of devices emitting magnetic fields raised valid questions concerning their safety and potential risk for human exposure and its limits. For this purpose fifteen adult mice were exposed to extremely low frequency electromagnetic field [ELMF] at a frequency of 60 Hertz [Hz] and intensity of 20 millitesla [mT] for 2 hours for 2 consecutive days. Other 10 animals served as a control. After their sacrifice, serum testosterone was determined. In addition, electron microscopic study of mice brains and testes was done. The present study revealed that exposure to EMF caused significant increase in serum testosterone. Electron microscopic examination of brain cells showed marked demyelination of nerve fibres with degeneration of nerve cells. There was also degeneration of some spermatogenic cells with abnormal sperm morphology. In conclusion, the present study showed evident biochemical and histopathological changes of ELMF on the brain and testis. Further studies would be useful to assess the effect of other doses of exposure and to follow the degree of reversibility of these changes. Other investigations are also advisable to minimize the above biological effects and protect against ELMF