ID Number		726
Study Type		In Vivo
Model		915, 2450 MHz (CW) exposure to pregnant rats and analysis of reproductive and development
Details		Wistar rats (preganant and non-pregnant dams) were exposed to 2450 MHz (CW) microwaves for 90 minutes at a whole body SAR of 1.8 to 2.2 W/kg. Exposures resulted in a significant skin temperature elevation as measured by a probe inserted in the tail, as well as colonic temperature increases of 0.1 and 0.35 degrees C, respectively. In both pregnant and non-pregnant rats, exposure resulted in an increase in corticosterone and ACTH, and a decrease in estradiol. In pregnant dams only, exposure resulted in a significant reduction of natural killer cells and a significant increase in beta-endorphin and progesterone. The change in pregnant rats seemed to indicate immunosuppression, and the authors hypothesize that this may be a response to stress designed to successfully maintain the pregnancy. In a related study, the authors show evidence suggesting the effects are mediated by the pituitary - opioid system. In subsequent studies, rats were exposed as above, except with 915 MHz (CW) signals at SARs of 0.2 and 0.4 W/kg, and evaluated for endocrine changes. The authors report the changes may have been thermal in nature.
Findings		Effects
Status		Completed With Publication
Principal Investigator		Kanazawa University, Japan - KYJ04747@niftyserve.or.jp
Funding Agency		Private/Instit.
Country		JAPAN
References		Nakamura, H et al. Reprod Toxicol, (2000) 14:235-240 Nakamura, H et al. Reprod Toxicol, (2003) 17:321-326 Nakamura, H et al. Environ Res Section A, (1998) 79:106-113 Nakamura, H et al. Occup. Environ. Med., (1997) 54:676-680
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