Exposure to 1.8 GHz radiofrequency field modulates ROS in human HEK293 cells as a function of signal amplitude

Abstract

Overview

The modern telecommunications industry is a global presence, with widespread daily use of cellular phones. The potential physiological impacts of wireless emissions around the GHz range are a key area of interest, though not well understood.

Findings

• Exposure of human HEK293 cultured cells to a 1.8 GHz frequency typical of household telecommunications leads to increased production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).
• Significant ROS increases are observed via fluorescent imaging after 15 minutes of radiofrequency (RF) exposure, affecting both nuclear and cytosolic parts of the cell.
• Gene expression analysis indicated changes in both anti-oxidative and oxidative enzymes, with qPCR highlighting alterations in SOD, GPX, CAT, and Nox-2 enzymes.
• Study noted common regulatory mechanisms between RF and static magnetic field effects on cells, suggesting shared features in their biological responses.

Conclusion

RF exposure within household device emission ranges directly influences cellular ROS production and signaling. The physiological response to RF exposure is complexly dependent on signal amplitude and may have both detrimental and beneficial outcomes. This supports the potential for RF exposure to cause various reported physiological effects, necessitating ongoing research attention regarding EMF safety.