Abstract

Overview

The increasing use of radiofrequency (RF) sources in technology raises concerns about potential health risks associated with RF exposure. This study investigates the non-thermal biological effects of non-ionizing radiation on human dermal fibroblasts (HDF). Specifically, it aims to evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic impacts of 1.6 GHz RF, both continuous and pulsed.

Methods

• HDF cultures underwent exposure to both pulsed and continuous 1.6 GHz RF for 2 hours.
• The Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) was maintained at 0.4 W/kg.
• A multi-methodological approach was employed, assessing impacts on cell cycle, cytoskeleton, protein expressions, and mitotic anomalies.

Findings

Exposure to 1.6 GHz RF caused:

• Morphological and protein expression changes in HDF.
• Increased lysosome numbers, and autophagosome formation specifically after pulsed RF exposure.
• Mitotic spindle anomalies, though no significant genotoxic effects like chromosome segregation issues or aneugenic effects were observed.

Conclusion

While the study confirmed the absence of genotoxic damage and aneugenic effects in HDF from 1.6 GHz RF exposure, notable alterations in protein expressions and cell structure were identified, suggesting potential cellular alterations. Further research is necessary to comprehensively understand these effects.