Abstract

Overview

With the increasing popularity of 5G mobile technology, the impact of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMF) on health is becoming a pressing concern. This study delves into the effects of a simulated 3.5 GHz RF-EMF on the growth and microbial composition of flies.

Findings

• Investigated RF-EMF intensities were 0.1 W/m2, 1 W/m2, and 10 W/m2.
• Observations showed increased pupation percentages in the first 3 days and higher eclosion rates in the first 2 days under RF-EMF exposure.
• Notable shortening in the mean development time of the flies.
• Increased expression of stress and immune system related genes such as hsp22, hsp26, hsp70, AttC, TotC, and TotA.
• Changes in oxidative stress response - decreased DuoX gene expression but increased sod2 and cat gene expressions and enzyme activities.
• Decreased microbial diversity with significant increases in Acetobacter and Lactobacillus.

Conclusion

Exposure to 3.5 GHz RF-EMF potentially enhances thermal and oxidative stress, boosts humoral immunity, alters microbial communities, and affects crucial signaling pathways like insulin/TOR and ecdysteroid, consequently promoting development in flies. This could serve as an essential reference for the understated health effects associated with RF-EMF exposure.