Influence of 50 Hz electromagnetic frequency on oxidative stress and morphological characteristics in mosquito-borne filariasis Culex pipiens

The electromagnetic field (EMF) is a vital issue in research, but its use as an alternative technique for insect management is still in its beginnings. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of exposure to the electromagnetic field on the biochemical analysis and morphological characteristics in Culex pipiens. Therefore, the third instar larvae were exposed to EMF frequency (50 Hz) at different intensities (250, 500, 1000 mT) for 1 h during four successive days. After end exposure to EMF, the biochemical analysis, oxidative stress parameters, body weight, and morphological features were investigated. The results showed that larval body weight and total protein content were decreased significantly in all treated groups compared to controls. The total lipid content significantly decreased at 500 & 1000 mT exposure, while the treatment group exposed to EMF at 250 mT was not statistically different compared to control. At a high intensity of EMF 1000 mT all oxidative stress parameters; catalase (CAT) and Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity and lipid peroxidation level (MDA) were decreased significantly compared to the control. On the other hand, at a low intensity (250 mT), CAT and GST activity was significantly increased, while MDA content was not statistically changed. Scanning electron microscopy showed that both 500 & 1000 mT caused distinct malformations to the larval body parts, mouthparts, thorax and abdomen with last abdominal structures. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that EMF exposure is a considerable stress factor that affects oxidative state and morphological features in mosquitoes and give hope that EMF will be used as an alternative method for Culex pipiens vector control.