Effects of Wi-Fi Radiofrequency Radiation on Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae

Authors: Ilham Said-Salman, Wissam Yassine, Ali Rammal, Mohammad Hneino, Hoda Yusef, Mohamed Moustafa

Year: 2021 Aug 1

Category: Bioelectromagnetics

Journal: Bioelectromagnetics

Institution: Bioelectromagnetics

DOI: 10.1002/bem.22364

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34337771/

Abstract

Overview

The hazardous consequences of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure represent a public health concern. Common sources of EMF include smartphones and wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi). The aim of our study is to assess whether exposure to Wi-Fi radiofrequency radiation influences the pathogenic traits of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Findings

  • The susceptibility to antibiotics was evaluated by the determination of minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC).
  • K. pneumoniae showed a non-linear response to treatments with Colistin and Gentamycin following different Wi-Fi exposure periods.
  • Transmission electron microscopy revealed morphological changes in the bacterial cell membrane within 24 h of Wi-Fi exposure.
  • Crystal violet quantification and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that the ability to form biofilms was greater in Wi-Fi exposed K. pneumoniae when compared to control.
  • Higher levels of bcsA, mrkA, and luxS messenger RNAs were observed, suggesting that Wi-Fi exposure can influence bacteria in a stressful way, leading to an alteration in their antibiotic susceptibility, morphological changes, and cumulative biofilm formation.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that Wi-Fi exposure can influence bacteria in a stressful way, leading to an alteration in their antibiotic susceptibility, morphological changes, and cumulative biofilm formation.

EMF Wi-Fi radiation antibiotic resistance biofilm formation public health
← Back to Stats