Evaluation of cognitive functions and EEG records in rats exposed to 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field

Electromagnetic fields may primarily affect cognitive functions. It has not been elucidated how electromagnetic radiation affects the brain, particularly in the young age group. We aimed to examine the cognitive function, expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDA), and EEG alterations in weaned rats exposed to a 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field.

Twenty-one weaned (21 days old) male Wistar Albino rats were divided into two groups as experimental group (n=12) and control group (n=9). Animals in the experimental group were exposed to a 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field for one hour a day for more than 28 days. At the end of this period, rats were subjected to training and learning test using Morris Water Maze. After obtaining EEG records, hippocampi were removed. 2A and 2B subunits of NMDA receptors were studied in hippocampal homogenates using the Western Blot method.

There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in measures of latency to target quadrant, time spent in the target quadrant, and average swim speed as compared in Morris water maze. However, the time to arrive at the visible platform was significantly longer in experimental animals. There were no statistically significant differences in expression of 2A and 2B subunits of NMDA receptors between the two groups. Evaluation of EEG records revealed that spike frequency was significantly higher and time to first spike was significantly shorter in the experimental group.

These results indicated that a 2.45 GHz electromagnetic field might negatively affect EEG, motivation, and attention, particularly in the young age group.