Radio frequency electromagnetic radiations interfere with the Leydig cell functions in-vitro

PLoS One. 2024 May 17;19(5):e0299017. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299017. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

A growing threat to male infertility has become a major concern for the human population due to the advent of modern technologies as a source of radiofrequency radiation (RFR). Since these technologies have become an integral part of our daily lives, thus, it becomes necessary to know the impression of such radiations on human health. In view of this, the current study aims to focus on the biological effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiations on mouse Leydig cell line (TM3) in a time-dependent manner. TM3 cells were exposed to RFR emitted from 4G cell phone and also exposed to a particular frequency of 1800 MHz and 2450 MHz from RFR exposure system. The cells were then evaluated for different parameters such as cell viability, cell proliferation, testosterone production, and ROS generation. A considerable reduction in the testosterone levels and proliferation rate of TM3 cells were observed at 120 min of exposure as compared to the control group in all exposure settings. Conversely, the intracellular ROS levels showed a significant rise at 60, 90 and 120 min of exposure in both mobile phone and 2450 MHz exposure groups. However, RFR treatment for different time durations (15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min) did not have significant effect on cell viability at any of the exposure condition (2450 MHz, 1800 MHz, and mobile phone radiation). Therefore, our findings concluded with the negative impact of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiations on Leydig cell's physiological functions, which could be a serious concern for male infertility. However, additional studies are required to determine the specific mechanism of RFR action as well as its long-term consequences.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Line
  • Cell Phone
  • Cell Proliferation* / radiation effects
  • Cell Survival* / radiation effects
  • Electromagnetic Radiation
  • Leydig Cells* / metabolism
  • Leydig Cells* / radiation effects
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Radio Waves* / adverse effects
  • Reactive Oxygen Species* / metabolism
  • Testosterone* / metabolism

Grants and funding

Dr. Rajeev received the award from Indian Council of Medical Research (Grant No. 5/10/FR/28/2019-RBMCH). The funders didn't play any role in the study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.