Electromagnetic pulse exposure induces neuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier disruption by activating the NLRP3 inflammasome/NF-κB signaling pathway in mice

Authors: Lin Y, Lang H, Gao P, Miao X, Guo Q, Hao Y, Ai T, Li J, Zhang J, Guo G

Year: 2025 Feb 27

Category: Neuroscience

Journal: Ecotoxicol Environ Saf

Institution: Ecotoxicol Environ Saf

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.117972

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0147651325003082?via%3Dihub

Abstract

Overview

The study delves into the biological effects of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) radiation on the central nervous system (CNS), specifically using microglial cells to explore the impact.

Findings

  • Mice subjected to EMP exposure of 600 kV/m with 1000 pulses per day for two weeks show increased oxidative stress.
  • This level of exposure leads to microglia polarization to the M1 state, which results in neuroinflammation and disruption of the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
  • Activated NLRP3 inflammasome/NF-κB signaling pathways are identified as modulators of the pro-inflammatory effects caused by EMP exposure.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that EMP irradiation initiates neuroinflammation and BBB damage primarily through NLRP3 inflammasome/NF-κB pathway activation. This study not only deepens understanding of EMP's effects on the CNS but also suggests potential targets for biomedical protection.

neuroinflammation blood-brain barrier NLRP3 inflammasome NF-κB signaling electromagnetic pulse CNS oxidative stress
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