The effect of 1800 MHz electromagnetic field on oxidative stress parameters in earthworms (Eisenia fetida)

There is increasing evidence about prooxidative effects of radiofrequency/microwave electromagnetic field (RF/MW EMF) exposure. In the present work, induction of oxidative stress was evaluated in earthworms Eisenia fetida. Animals were exposed to RF/MW EMF of 1800 MHz and electric field strength of 23 V/m (0.14 mW/cm²) in the Half-Cone Transversal Electromagnetic (HCTEM) cell during 2 hours. Temperature inside earthworms was measured before and after the exposure to see if it has increased due to radiation. QuickField simulation of the HCTEM cell was made in order to calculate specific absorption rate (SAR), because SAR level is also an indicator of thermal stress. Obtained data showed an increase of lipid peroxidation, while the level of reduced glutathione decreased after exposure. Activity of catalase and glutathione S-transferase was higher in exposed animals. Temperature measurements showed there was no temperature increase in exposed animals (compared with control). Calculated SAR also excluded thermal stress. In conclusion, our results showed that RF/MW EMF radiation of 1800 MHz at electric field strength of 23 V/m can induce oxidative stress in E. fetida without any observable temperature increase.