Human-made electromagnetic fields: Ion forced-oscillation and voltage-gated ion channel dysfunction, oxidative stress and DNA damage (Review)

Abstract

Overview

The review study focuses on the impacts of human-made electromagnetic fields (EMFs), particularly in the extremely low frequency (ELF) and microwave/radio frequency (RF) bands on biological samples or animals. It highlights the common presence of ELF components in almost all human-made RF EMFs, which include modulation, pulsing, and random variability aspects.

Findings

• DNA damage is extensively reviewed, particularly how it is influenced by electromagnetic fields, leading to various health issues including cell death, infertility, and cancer.
• The study details how ELF exposure from power lines and complex RF exposure from wireless devices are associated with higher cancer risks.
• It is detailed that the malfunction of ion channels caused by EMF exposure disrupts the cell's electrochemical balance leading to the production of reactive oxygen species and free radicals, consequently causing DNA damage.

Conclusion

The paper concludes that non-thermal biological effects often attributed to RF EMFs are significantly due to their ELF components. This presents a substantial connection between EMF exposure and serious health conditions such as cancer.