Modulator Role of Grape Seed Extract on Erythrocyte Hemolysis and Oxidative Stress Induced by Microwave Irradiation in Rats

This study was conducted to investigate firstly, the oxidative stress and erythrocyte hemolysis induced by exposure to 2450 MHz continuous wave microwave (MW), which is the carrier of signals emitted by cellular phones. Secondly to evaluate the possible protective role of grape seed extract. Male rats were randomly divided into four groups, the first group was considered as control, the second group was exposed to microwave at frequency 2450 MHz alone, the third group was supplemented by grape seed extract (GSE 200 mg/kg b.wt) and the fourth group was exposed to MW but was also supplemented by (GSE 200 mg/kg b.wt) before irradiation. The level of Malondialdehyde (MDA), an index of lipid peroxidation (LPO), was estimated and used as a marker of oxidative stress. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were expressed to evaluate the changes of antioxidant status. Also erythrocyte osmofragility test was assessed to determine rate by which red blood cells will undergo hemolysis. The level of malondialdehyde significantly elevated and the levels of antioxidative enzymes significantly decreased, in addition the erythrocyte hemolysis rate increased in the MW group compared to the control group. Oral administration of GSE exhibited marked amelioration of LPO, antioxidative enzymes, and rate of hemolysis which returned to normal values during the course of GSE treatment. It could be concluded that GSE has potent antioxidant effect that may be able to compensate MW-induced oxidative changes in the blood tissue by strengthening the antioxidant defense system. [New York Science Journal 2010; 3(6):66-73]. (ISSN 1554 – 0200).