Sains Malaysiana, 2017;46:1597-1602.

Abstract

Health hazard through smart phone radiation has been associated with male infertility. The suspected prime mediator is
the NOX5 enzyme. When activated, the additional pathway for free radical production will damage sperm’s DNA. However,
conclusive evidence is still lacking. Thus, this study was conducted to comprehend the detrimental effect of the radiation
towards sperm parameters by using rat as a model. Parameters measured include sperm concentration, viability, DNA
damage status and NOX5 level on sperm. This study consisted of two phases. The first phase was conducted to determine
the optimal radiation frequency emitted from the smart phone. The radiation frequencies that were evaluated were 0 MHz
(control), 4200 MHz without multiple connection mode (minimum frequency) and 9700 MHZ with multiple connection
modes (maximum frequency). Each exposure setting represented one group. Each group consists of eight rats, which
received exposure for 6 h/day for two consecutive weeks. All parameters measured showed significant differences.
Optimum frequency for significant changes to sperm parameters were identified as the minimum frequency. Second part
of the research involved the determination of optimum exposure duration. The optimal frequency obtained was used in
combination with exposure duration of 0 h (control), 2, 4 and 6 h. Each group had 8 rats and exposure was conducted
for 2 weeks. The results showed a significant difference for all parameters following 4 h of exposure. Following this,
evaluation of DNA damage status through NOX5 activity was done by using the optimum setting where 0 MHz/0 h as a
control and 4200 MHz/4 h per day for up to 2 weeks. The results showed significant differences of NOX5 fluorescent
intensity between the two groups. In conclusion, although smart phone emitted low radiation, it can decrease sperm
concentration, viability and increase