Evaluation of oxidative stress and genetic instability among residents near mobile phone base stations in Germany

Abstract

Overview

Human exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) is commonly restricted to avoid thermal effects in tissues. This study explores the "non-thermal" biological effects, such as oxidative stress, DNA or chromosomal aberrations, known as genomic instability, that might occur even with low-intensity exposures over prolonged periods.

Findings

• The study identified two neighboring housing estates in a rural German region. Residents from these areas were exposed to varying levels of RF-EMF due to proximity to mobile phone base stations (MPBS).
• Participants included 24 healthy adults residing in their homes for a minimum of five years. The study assessed electromagnetic field types, blood for oxidative status, transient DNA changes, permanent chromosomal damages, and specific cancer-related genetic markers, such as MLL gene rearrangements.
• While long-term RF-EMF exposure showed no measurable effect on MLL gene rearrangements and c-Abl-gene transcription, it correlated with higher levels of lipid oxidation and oxidative DNA lesions; however, the differences were not statistically significant.
• Significant findings included elevated rates of chromosomal aberrations such as dicentric chromosomes, chromatid gaps, and chromosomal fragments in the highly exposed group.

Conclusion

The findings suggest non-ionizing radiation from RF-EMF can induce chromosomal aberrations similar to those observed with ionizing radiation exposure. Biological endpoints examined in this study could help in forming exposure limitation strategies and further research into the dose-effect relationships is recommended to refine exposure guidelines.