Study type: Medical/biological study (experimental study)

Effects of extremely low-frequency magnetic field on mouse epididymis and deferens ducts med./bio.

Published in: Iran J Reprod Med 2009; 7 (2): 85-89

Aim of study (acc. to author)

To study the effect of electromagnetic fields (50 Hz, 0.5 mT) on morphological changes in epididymis and deferens duct in mice.

Background/further details

30 mice were divided into three groups (exposure, sham exposure and control group outside of the exposure system).

Endpoint

Exposure

Exposure Parameters
Exposure 1: 50 Hz
Exposure duration: continuous for 4 hr/day, 6 days/week for 2 months

Exposure 1

Main characteristics
Frequency 50 Hz
Type
Exposure duration continuous for 4 hr/day, 6 days/week for 2 months
Exposure setup
Exposure source
  • not specified
Sham exposure A sham exposure was conducted.
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
magnetic flux density 0.5 mT - measured - -

Exposed system:

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

Investigated system:
Investigated organ system:
Time of investigation:
  • after exposure

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)

The data showed that the mean diameter of the of epididymis and deferens duct in the exposure group was significantly decreased compared to the outside control group (no difference between the exposure and sham exposure group was found for epididymis diameter, but also for deferens duct). The height of epithelial cells in epididymis and deferens duct in exposed mice was considerably reduced compared to both control groups (significant for deferens duct). In addition, the weight of testes in the exposure group was significantly decreased compared to both control groups.
The authors conclude that the exposure to electromagnetic fields leads to detrimental effects on the male reproductive system in mice as seen by a decrease in diameter of reproductive ducts, a decrease in the height of epithelial cells and weight of testes.

Study character:

Study funded by

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