Ameliorative Role of Coenzyme Q10 in RF Radiation-Associated Testicular and Oxidative Impairments in a 3.5-GHz Exposure Model

Abstract

This study investigated the biological effects of GSM-modulated 3.5 GHz radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic field exposure on male reproductive function and evaluated the potential protective role of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Twenty-eight adult male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups: Control, RF, CoQ10, and RF + CoQ10. Animals were exposed to RF for 2 h/day over 30 days, while CoQ10 was administered intraperitoneally at 10 mg/kg/day. Hormonal (testosterone, LH, FSH), biochemical (MDA, GSH, TAS, TOS), and histopathological assessments were performed. Specific absorption rate (SAR) simulations estimated a whole-body SAR of 0.16995 W/kg and a testis-specific SAR of 0.02669 W/kg. RF exposure significantly reduced testosterone, LH, and FSH levels, increased MDA and TOS concentrations, and induced degenerative changes in testicular histology. CoQ10 treatment partially ameliorated these alterations by restoring testosterone and TAS levels and reducing tissue damage. These results indicate that even low-SAR GSM-modulated 3.5 GHz RF exposure may negatively impact male reproductive health, and CoQ10 supplementation may confer partial protective effects. Because the exposure consisted of a GSM-modulated waveform, the results cannot be extrapolated to FR1 5G NR signals used in real communication systems. Further studies are needed to clarify mechanisms and assess biological relevance under real-world exposure conditions. Bioelectromagnetics. 00:00-00, 2026.