Exposure to 1800 MHz LTE electromagnetic fields under proinflammatory conditions decreases the response strength and increases the acoustic threshold of auditory cortical neurons

Authors: Samira Souffi, Julie Lameth, Quentin Gaucher, Délia Arnaud-Cormos, Philippe Lévêque, Jean-Marc Edeline, Michel Mallat

Year: 2022 Mar 8

Category: Neuroscience

Journal: Sci Rep

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07923-9

URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-07923-9

Abstract

Overview

Considering the widespread use of mobile devices, understanding the impact of long-term evolution (LTE) and electromagnetic fields (EMF) on biological systems is imperative. This study investigates the effects of 1800 MHz LTE EMF on rat auditory cortical neurons under inflammatory conditions.

Methodology

Rats were exposed to a head-only 1800 MHz LTE EMF exposure for 2 hours. The experiment focused on neurological changes and electrophysiological response in the primary auditory cortex (ACx), specifically under conditions mimicking acute neuroinflammation triggered by lipopolysaccharide.

Key Findings

  • LTE EMF reduced the neuronal response strength to sounds and increased the acoustic threshold in affected frequencies.
  • No change was noted in microglial space coverage, indicating selective neural sensitivity.
  • Neuroinflammation was found to sensitize neurons to LTE EMF exposure, altering auditory processing capabilities.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that LTE EMF can adversely affect auditory neuronal processing, particularly under conditions of acute neuroinflammation, which may raise concerns regarding EMF exposure and neurological health risks.

EMF LTE auditory cortex neuroinflammation auditory stimuli
← Back to Stats