Experimental Evidence of Radio Frequency Radiation From Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms

Authors: M. Rao, K. Sarabandi, J. Soukar, N. A. Kotov, J. S. VanEpps

Year: 2022

Category: Electromagnetic Biology

Journal: IEEE Journal of Electromagnetics, RF and Microwaves in Medicine and Biology

DOI: 10.1109/JERM.2022.3168618

URL: https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=9771271&isnumber=8000303

Abstract

Abstract Summary

This study highlights the initial successful detection of electromagnetic radiation from Staphylococcus aureus biofilms, marking an unprecedented finding in bio-communication within a gigahertz frequency. This research uses cutting-edge sensing technologies to ensure accurate measurements:

  • Introduction of a sophisticated wideband near-zone radiative system targeting the 1–50 GHz frequency spectrum, with significant findings in the 3–4 GHz range.
  • Utilization of Zinc oxide nanopyramids to differentiate biological signals from thermal emissions, confirming the biological origin of detected signals.
  • Deployment of a spiral antenna system to further investigate specific frequency bands within close range, solidifying observations of potential biological communication frequencies at 3.18 GHz and 3.45 GHz.

Findings

Noteworthy radiative patterns were observed, identifying two distinct frequency bands that serve as potential "communication bands" for interactions within bacterial communities.

Conclusion

The evidence from this study not only supports the potential for EM radiation among bacterial cells but also poses significant implications for our understanding of bio-communication, fostering potential technological advancements in the fields of biology and communication systems.

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