Evaluation of the protective effects of folic acid on the lung exposed to 900-MHZ electromagnetic field: A stereological and histopathological study

Abstract

There is strong scientific evidence that radio frequency (RF) radiation is harmful to life. Exposure to radiation may cause lung toxicity and respiratory disorders. Folic acid (FA) is one of the powerful antioxidants that minimize oxidative stress in the biological system. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of the FA against the EMF-induced potential negative effects on the lung. Twenty-four male Wistar albino rats were divided into the four groups; control group (Cont), electromagnetic field group (EMF), FA treated group (FA), and electromagnetic field exposure + FA treated group (EFA). After the routine histological procedures, volumes of the alveoli, bronchioles and blood vessels have been estimated by the Cavalieri principle. It was found that a significant decrease in the mean volume of alveoli, bronchioles and blood vessels in EMF group in comparison of the Cont group (p<0.01). Besides this, histopathological analysis demonstrated that there was impaired lung structure, shrunken alveoli, and increased thickness of the alveolar wall in the EMF group sections. In the EFA group, significant protective effects were observed in the structures volumes and histopathology (p<0.01). These findings corresponded with the antioxidant effect of FA treatment. Our results suggest that FA protected alveoli, bronchioles, and blood vessels against EMF-induced lung injury. Thus FA has the potential to be a therapeutic agent.