Analysis of Gene Expression in Mice Testes Exposed to 1.765 GHz Microwave in Utero

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of 1.765 GHz microwave on fetal testicular gene expression in mice. STUDY DESIGN: We used a 1.765 GHz microwave generator with 26.7 dBm output power on average and with the estimated specific absorption rate of 0.38–1.71 W/kg. Twelve mice in the experimental group had been exposed to 1.765 GHz micro-waves for 8 hours every day. The testicular gene expression extracted from the neonates separated from all the offspring were compared with microarray and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the mice in the 2 groups in regards to birthweight of offspring, number of offspring, the pregnancy period, or maternal body temperature during the experimental period. The differences of the numbers of testicular gene expression between the 2 groups were observed using measurements obtained by the microarray. We found 3 (Tssk2, Ovol1, and Mea1) downregulated genes confirmed by real-time RT-PCR. CONCLUSION: The expression of Tssk2, Ovol1, and Mea1 in the experimental group was downregulated lower than those in the control group by real-time RT-PCR.