Effects of extremely low electromagnetic field on ovary and uterus in rats; TUNEL study

Introduction: Many studies have shown that exposure to extremely low electromagnetic fields can have adverse effects on female reproductive system and tracts, and thus, a relationship between exposure to electromagnetic fields and infertility is conjectured. The aim of this study was to evaluate the adverse effects of extremely low electromagnetic field on uterus and ovary. Materials and methods: In order to examine this, 20 female Wistar rats were selected and kept for 1 week, in quarantine and then, subdivided into two groups; control group and exposed group. Rats in the exposed group were exposed to 50 Hz of ELF EMF (non-ionizing radiation, 3mT) for 6 weeks. The materials were processed and apoptosis was observed under a light microscope using TUNEL method. Result: In the experimental rats, the amount of uterine and ovarian tissue apoptosis increased significantly. Cell injury was observed. Conclusion: This study showed that ELF EMF could induce cell injury on uterine and ovarian tissue leading to infertility and subfertility

Keywords:

Extremely low electromagnetic field , Ovary , Uterus , Apoptosis