Effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (UMTS) on reproduction and development of mice: a multi-generation...

Male and female mice (C57BL) were chronically exposed (life-long, 24 h/day) to mobile phone communication electromagnetic fields at approximately 1966 MHz (UMTS). Their development and fertility were monitored over four generations by investigating histological, physiological, reproductive and behavioral functions. The mean whole-body SARs, calculated for adult animals at the time of mating, were 0 (sham), 0.08, 0.4 and 1.3 W/kg. Power densities were kept constant for each group (0, 1.35, 6.8 and 22 W/m(2)), resulting in varying SARs due to the different numbers of adults and pups over the course of the experiment. The experiment was done in a blind fashion. The results show no harmful effects of exposure on the fertility and development of the animals. The number and the development of pups were not affected by exposure. Some data, albeit without a clear dose-response relationship, indicate effects of exposure on food consumption that is in accordance with some data published previously. In summary, the results of this study do not indicate harmful effects of long-term exposure of mice to UMTS over several generations.