Radiofrequency radiation emitted from Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz) causes impaired insulin secretion and increased oxidative stress in rat pancreatic islets.

PURPOSE

There is a great concern regarding the possible adverse effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). This study investigated the effects of EMR induced by Wi-Fi (2.45 GHz) on insulin secretion and antioxidant redox systems in the rat pancreas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats in the weight range of 230-260 g were divided into control, sham, Wi-Fi exposed groups. After long-term exposure (4 h/day for 45 days) to Wi-Fi EMR, plasma levels of glucose and insulin during intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test were measured. Islet insulin secretion and content, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant status in pancreas of rats were determined.

RESULTS

Our data showed that the weight gain in the WI-FI exposed group was significantly lower than the control group (p < .05). Wi-Fi (2.45 GHz)-exposed group showed hyperglycemia. Plasma insulin level and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from pancreatic islet were significantly reduced in the Wi-Fi-exposed group. EMR emitted from Wi-Fi caused a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and a significant decrease in GSH level, SOD, and GPx activities of the pancreas.

CONCLUSIONS

These data showed that EMR of Wi-Fi leads to hyperglycemia, increased oxidative stress, and impaired insulin secretion in the rat pancreatic islets.