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.