Environmental exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) has been increasing with the increasing demand for communication devices.
The aim of the study was to discuss the mechanisms and risk factors of EMR changes on reproductive functions and membrane oxidative biology in females and males. It was reported that even chronic exposure to EMR did not increase the risk of reproductive functions such as increased levels of neoantigens abort. However, the results of some studies indicate that EMR induced endometriosis and inflammation and decreased the number of follicles in the ovarium or uterus of rats. In studies with male rats, exposure caused degeneration in the seminiferous tubules, reduction in the number of Leydig cells and testosterone production as well as increases in luteinizing hormone levels and apoptotic cells. In some cases of male and female infertility, increased levels of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation and decreased values of antioxidants such as melatonin, vitamin E and glutathione peroxidase were reported in animals exposed to EMR. In conclusion, the results of current studies indicate that oxidative stress from exposure to Wi-Fi and mobile phone-induced EMR is a significant mechanism affecting female and male reproductive systems. However, there is no evidence to this date to support an increased risk of female and male infertility related to EMR exposure.
Written by:
Nazıroğlu M, Yüksel M, Köse SA, Ozkaya MO. Are you the author?
Department of Biophysics, Medical Faculty, Suleyman Demirel University, Isparta, Turkey.
Reference: J Membr Biol. 2013 Oct 9. Epub ahead of print.
doi: 10.1007/s00232-013-9597-9
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 24105626
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