Therapeutic effects of melatonin in long-term exposure to 2100 MHz radiofrequency radiation on rat sperm characteristics

Introduction

Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) are one of the risk factors for male reproductive health and melatonin can be an ideal candidate for therapeutic development against RF-induced male fertility problems due to its antioxidant properties. The possible therapeutic role of melatonin in the destructive effects of 2100 MHz RF radiation on rat sperm characteristics is investigated in the present study.

Methods

Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups and the experiment continued for ninety consecutive days; Control, Melatonin (10 mg/kg, subcutaneously), RF (2100 MHz, thirty minutes per day, whole-body), and RF + Melatonin groups. Left caudal epididymis and ductus deferens tissues were placed in sperm wash solution (at 37 °C) and dissected. The sperms were counted and stained. Measurements of the perinuclear ring of the manchette and posterior portion of the nucleus (ARC) were performed and the sperms were examined at an ultrastructural level. All of the parameters were evaluated statistically.

Results

The percentages of abnormal sperm morphology were significantly increased with RF exposure, while the total sperm count was significantly decreased. RF exposure also showed harmful effects on acrosome, axoneme, mitochondrial sheath, and outer dense fibers at the ultrastructural level. The number of total sperms, sperms with normal morphology increased, and ultrastructural appearance returned to normal by melatonin administration.

Discussion

The data showed that melatonin may be a beneficial therapeutic agent for long-term exposure of 2100 MHz RF radiation-related reproductive impairments.