Millimeter waves alter DNA secondary structures and modulate the transcriptome in human fibroblasts

Authors: Lawler NB, Evans CW, Romanenko S, Chaudhari N, Fear M, Wood F, Smith NM, Wallace VP, Swaminathan Iyer K

Year: 2022 Apr 28

Category: Biomedical Engineering

Journal: Biomed Opt Express

Institution: Biomed Opt Express

DOI: 10.1364/BOE.458478

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9203081/

Abstract

Overview

As the use of millimeter wave (MMW) frequencies in technology such as mobile communications increases, understanding the biological impacts is crucial for ensuring safety. This study focuses on how MMWs affect human skin cells at the genetic level.

Findings

  • Exposure to MMWs at 60 GHz, 2.6 mW cm-2, 46.8 J cm-2 d-1 triggers significant changes in the DNA and RNA of human dermal fibroblasts after just 2 to 4 days.
  • These changes include the formation of complex DNA structures like G-quadruplex and i-motif, though they do not cause direct DNA damage.
  • The effect of MMWs is predominantly non-thermal, suggesting that traditional metrics of thermal damage may not be sufficient to assess MMW safety.

Conclusion

This research provides evidence that high doses of MMWs can lead to unique modifications in cellular structures that warrant consideration when defining safety standards for MMW exposure.

millimeter waves DNA structure transcriptome non-thermal effects electromagnetic fields fibroblasts safety
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