[Effect of a static magnetic field (3.5 T) on the reproductive behavior of mice, on the embryo and fetal development and on selected hematologic parameters].
To investigate possibilities of magnetic resonance imaging at high magnetic fields in humans, a whole-body magnet with a magnetic field density of 4 T was developed. Due to the few data that are available at present on biological effects and side effects of such high fields, a reproduction experiment with NMRI mice was performed using a crossover design. The mice were allowed to mate during a 7-day period within the field or after their stay in the field. The number of pregnant mice and foetuses were recorded and compared to the controls. Another group was held within the magnetic field during the whole period of pregnancy until day 18, one day before delivery. In all groups, development of the foetuses was studied. Additionally, haematological parameters of the males and females were estimated and necroscopy was performed. Brains, lungs and optical nerves were investigated using pathohistological techniques. It could be shown that in case of mating within the magnetic field, the number of pregnant mice was considerably reduced. This effect was, however, completely reversible if mating occurred after the stay in the field. Malformations, retardations or an increased number of resorptions were never found. The haematological parameters were, in general, not changed. Necroscopy as well as pathohistological investigations showed no pathological alterations. Therefore, it appears that whereas high magnetic fields reduce the activity of mating behaviour, they do not exert any influence on physiological parameters.
Institut für Anatomie, Freie Universität Berlin.
B
B
Zimmermann
D
D
Hentschel
D000818:Animals; D001772:Blood Cell Count; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D055590:Electromagnetic Phenomena / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development; D005260:Female; D006400:Hematocrit; D006452:Hemoglobinometry; D008098:Litter Size; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008815:Mice, Inbred Strains; D011247:Pregnancy; D011270:Pregnancy, Animal / Q000502:physiology*
Wirkung eines statischen Magnetfeldes (3.5 T) auf das Reproduktionsverhalten von Mäusen, auf die embryonale und fetale Entwicklung und auf ausgewählte hämatologische Parameter.