Abstract

Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) produced by many telecommunication systems, has short and long term biological effects on living cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of EMR on the outcome of coccidiosis induced by Eimeria papillata. Oocysts from E. papillata infected mice were exposed to the EMR in the form of gamma rays, ultraviolet rays and radiations emitted from the mobile phone. Sporulation rate, oocysts shedding as well as the histological alterations in jejunum of mice irradiated with oocysts exposed to EMR were determined. Oocyst output was reduced in mice exposed to EMR. The jejunum histopathology was improved after inoculation of mice with irradiated oocysts. We suggest that EMR has anticoccidial activities and its application could serve as an alternative to the anticoccidial drugs currently used in poultry production.

Key words: Electromagnetic radiation, Eimeria papillata, mice.