Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

Today, individuals are invariably exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMF), particularly the extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF). The impact of ELF-EMF on memory, particularly spatial memory and hippocampal function in mice and rats, varies widely according to existing studies, leading to both skepticism and curiosity in scientific circles.

Findings

• Approximately 46.66% of the reviewed studies observed no significant effect of ELF-EMF on spatial memory.
• About 33.33% of studies noted impaired spatial memory, coupled with an increase in oxidative stress and free radicals.
• 20% of the studies suggested improvements in spatial memory, along with enhanced neurogenesis and a reduction in oxidative stress.

This variance denotes that ELF-EMF's effect on spatial memory heavily relies on the duration of exposure, with prolonged exposure tending to impair memory.

Conclusion

Though ELF-EMF can have benign or even positive effects at low frequencies and shorter exposure times, posing potential therapeutic benefits, increased frequency, intensity, and particularly prolonged exposure durations can severely compromise spatial memory. This emphasizes the necessity for further investigations, particularly focusing on long-term exposure scenarios.