Electromagnetic pulse radiate impairs reproductive function in young male mice

Objective: Several studies suggest the effect of electromagnetic radiation on reproductive function in adults, but the effects during puberty are less understood. This study aimed to investigate the effects and related mechanisms of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) radiation on fertility and sex hormone concentration in prepuberal mice. Materials and methods: Three-week old male BALB/c mice were randomly allocated: experimental group received EMP radiation for 4 weeks; sham-exposure group were handled similarly while exposed to a noise simulating EMP treatment. Two weeks later, mice from both groups were mated to females to assess fertility rates. In addition, on days 1, 7, 14, 28 and 60 after irradiation, serum testosterone (T), growth hormone (GH), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) concentrations were analyzed by radioimmunoassay, and the expression of GnRH receptor (R), androgen receptor (AR) and metastasis-associated protein 1 (MTA1) in testicular tissue was assessed by PCR and immunohistochemistry. Results: Treated mice failed to impregnate females, while control mice yielded normal pregnancy rate (83.3%). Moreover, EMP radiation decreased serum GnRH, T and GH concentrations, and reduced the expression of GnRHR, AR and MTA1 in the testis. Conclusion: These findings support that EMP radiation impairs reproductive function in prepuberal mice.