The effect of 17 days exposure to static magnetic fields on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in the male rat

Abstract

Power stations produce a range of magnetic fields more than 20 mT which are harmful to those working or living around them. Several investigators have reported an increased health risk due to exposure to electric and magnetic fields (EMF) at 50 and 60 Hz. Several studies have been reported especially with increased tumor incidence, effects on reproduction and development, and neural and behavioral changes.

This study evaluated the possible effect of static MFs 50 Hz on the secretion of Testosterone, LH and FSH hormones in male rats. Forty eight Wistar male rats (same range of age and weight) were randomly divided into four groups. Animals in group 1 were used as a sham exposure group. After one-week adaptation they were placed in exposure to three MFs for 40 minutes daily for 17 days. Group 2, 3 and 4 were exposed with 6, 12 and 24 mT static MFs at 50 Hz respectively. After experiments animals were killed and their bloods were collected in separated tubes and their serums were separated using a centrifuge with 3500 RPM for 15 min.

Hormones were measured using gamma counter equipment with RIA and IPMA methods. The results were analyzed by ANOVA statistical method. Our results show that testosterone, LH and FSH have not changed significantly (p< 0.05) using these static MFs intensities. therefore it can be concluded that at least the static MFs used in this study (with these intensities and duration) can not affect the secretion of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal hormones.