Critical role of model organism selection in assessing weak urban electromagnetic field effects: Implications for human health

Abstract

Overview

The impact of electromagnetic fields on human health has been investigated in recent years using various model organisms, yet the findings remain unclear. In our work, we examined the effect of less-explored, weak electromagnetic fields commonly found in the urban environments we inhabit.

Findings

• We studied impacts of electromagnetic fields with a frequency of 50 Hz and a combination of 50 Hz and 150 Hz, on both yeasts (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and human macrophages. We determined growth, survival, and protein composition for yeast and morphology changes in macrophages.
• Yeast showed an extended exponential growth phase by 17 hours after 24 hours of exposure.
• Macrophages transformed from an anti-inflammatory to a pro-inflammatory type within just two hours of exposure to the electromagnetic field.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the effects of electromagnetic fields largely depend on the model organism used. Continuous exposure to weak urban electromagnetic fields, which primarily promote inflammatory reactions within healthy organisms, raises concerns and deserves further investigation.