A Review on the Effect of Antioxidants in Prenatal Brain Development on Exposure to Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields

Abstract

Electromagnetic pollution has tremendously increased in this current century. Increased human exposure to extremely low frequency electro-magnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) caused due to increasing use of electric and electronic devices. Exposure to electric fields disturbs brain functions, hormones and enzyme activity, depending on the frequency and duration of that exposure.  The World Health Organization (WHO) and Environmental Health Trust, started a new project called “BABY SAFE WIRELESS PROJECT” to voice their concern and limit their exposure on pregnant women. Studies also showed the effect on the behavior, cognitive functions, learning and memory disabilities of rodents of EMF caused by mobile phones have particularly on prenatal exposure. Exposure to EMF has been observed to cause increased free radical production in the cellular environment and alters its functions. Overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause oxidative stress in the body and leads to changes in antioxidant defense systems. It would be more beneficial when the pregnant women are treated with antioxidants as EMF concentrating on alterations in several antioxidant enzyme activities and different parameters of oxidation.