Exploring edible bird nest's potential in mitigating Wi‐Fi's impact on male reproductive health

Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of edible bird nest (EBN) against the detrimental impact of Wi‐Fi on male reproductive health. Specifically, it examines whether EBN can mitigate Wi‐Fi‐induced changes in male reproductive hormones, estrogen receptors (ER), spermatogenesis, and sperm parameters. Methods Thirty‐six adult male rats were divided into six groups (n = 6): Control, Control EBN, Control E2, Wi‐Fi, Wi‐Fi+EBN, and Wi‐Fi+E2. Control EBN and Wi‐Fi+EBN groups received 250 mg/kg/day EBN, while Control E2 and Wi‐Fi+E2 groups received 12 μg/kg/day E2 for 10 days. Wi‐Fi exposure and EBN supplementation lasted eight weeks. Assessments included organ weight, hormone levels (FSH, LH, testosterone, and E2), ERα/ERβ mRNA and protein expression, spermatogenic markers (c‐KIT and SCF), and sperm quality. Results Wi‐Fi exposure led to decreased FSH, testosterone, ERα mRNA, and sperm quality (concentration, motility, and viability). EBN supplementation restored serum FSH and testosterone levels, increased serum LH levels, and the testosterone/E2 ratio, and normalized mRNA ERα expression. Additionally, EBN increased sperm concentration in Wi‐Fi‐exposed rats without affecting motility or viability. Conclusions EBN plays a crucial role in regulating male reproductive hormones and spermatogenesis, leading to improved sperm concentration. This could notably benefit men experiencing oligospermia due to excessive Wi‐Fi exposure.