Abstract

Overview

The skin, being the largest body organ, is susceptible to physiological impacts from external factors such as radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs). This study investigates how RF-EMFs affect melanogenesis in Mel-Ab melanocytes.

Findings

• Using 1760 MHz radiation at a specific absorption rate of 4.0 W/kg for four hours daily over four days increased melanin production in Mel-Ab melanocytes.
• Key regulators of melanin synthesis, such as the phosphorylation of cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) and expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), were significantly elevated.
• Despite increased tyrosinase expression, tyrosinase activity remained unchanged, suggesting alternative regulatory mechanisms in response to RF-EMF exposure.
• Higher expression levels of p53 and melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R), which are involved in MITF regulation, were noted. This implies a pathway for RF-EMF-induced melanogenesis.
• Control tests show that changes are unlikely to be thermal effects as they are negated by incubation at 38°C.

Conclusion

The research demonstrates that exposure to 1760 MHz RF-EMF can induce skin pigmentation changes by enhancing melanin synthesis through non-thermal, biochemical pathways in Mel-Ab melanocytes.