There is evidence to suggest that the
neuroprotective effect of exposure of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) may be due, at least in part, to the effect of these fields on
neurotrophic factors levels and cell survival, leading to an improvement in behavior. This study was undertaken to investigate the
neuroprotective effects of ELFEF in a rat model of
3-nitropropionic acid (3NP)-induced
Huntington's disease. Behavior patterns were evaluated, and changes in
neurotrophic factor, cell damage, and oxidative stress
biomarker levels were monitored in Wistar rats. Rats were given 3NP over four consecutive days (20 mg/kg
body weight), whereas ELFEF (60 Hz and 0.7 mT) was applied over 21 days, starting after the last injection of 3NP. Rats treated with 3NP exhibited significantly different behavior in the open field test (OFT) and the forced swim test (FST), and displayed significant differences in
neurotrophic factor levels and oxidative stress
biomarkers levels, together with a neuronal damage and diminished neuronal density, with respect neuronal controls. ELFEF improved neurological scores, enhanced
neurotrophic factor levels, and reduced both oxidative damage and neuronal loss in 3NP-treated rats. ELFEF alleviates 3NP-induced
brain injury and prevents loss of neurons in rat striatum, thus showing considerable potential as a therapeutic tool.