Effects of low frequency electromagnetic fields on chondrogenesis and osteogenesis of embryonic chick limb bud

  Introduction: Depending on mode, intensity and length of application, and stage of development, the low-frequency electromagnetic fields (LFEs) can induce a wide variety of biological effects in organisms. The chick limb bud is a powerful experimental system for study pattern formation in vertebrate embryo. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of an application LFEs (50Hz, 50G) on chondrogenesis and osterogensis of embryonic chick limb bud.   Materials and Methods: Twenty Gallus gallus fertilized eggs were randomly divided into two control and experimental groups. Fifty-six hours after incubation, eggs of experimental group were exposed to LFEs for 3h. On 12th day of incubation, the weight of embryos was recorded. Then, microscopic sections were prepared from embryos and length of tibia, length of osteogenesis zone and the number of chondrocytes of epiphysis and diaphysis were measured using the Image J software.   Results: In comparison with control group, the number of chondrocytes of epiphysis and diaphysis was significantly decreased, while the length of tibia and osteogenesis zone was significantly increased (both, P