The effects of 3.5 GHz radiofrequency radiation exposure on the male reproductive system: The protective potential of coenzyme Q10

In this thesis, the biological effects of 3.5 GHz radiofrequency (RF) radiation commonly used in 5G wireless communication systems on the male reproductive system of rats were evaluated, and the potential protective role of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation against these effects was investigated. Rats were divided into four groups (Control, RF, CoQ10, RF+CoQ10), and RF exposure was applied for 2 hours daily over 30 days. The calculated whole-body SAR value was 0.006879 W/kg, and the testis-specific SAR value was 0.000598 W/kg. Hormonal analyses (LH, FSH, testosterone), oxidative stress markers (MDA, TOS, TAS, GSH) in testicular tissue, and histopathological findings were comprehensively evaluated. The RF group exhibited significant reductions in serum testosterone, LH, and FSH levels, along with marked increases in MDA and TOS levels. Histopathologically, degeneration of the seminiferous tubules and a decline in the Johnsen score were observed. CoQ10 supplementation contributed meaningfully to the preservation of testosterone levels, improvement in antioxidant parameters, and maintenance of testicular structural integrity. These findings demonstrate that RF exposure, even at low SAR levels, may exert biologically significant effects on the male reproductive system, and that CoQ10 possesses potential protective properties against such damage. The results underscore the importance of individual protection strategies against electromagnetic field exposure and suggest that antioxidant-based approaches should be considered for future therapeutic applications.