Effects of Long-Term Exposure of Intermediate Frequency Magnetic Fields (20 kHz, 360 µT) on the Development, Pathological Findings, and Behavior of Female Mice

Authors: Alexander Lerchl, Karen Drees, Née Grote, Isabel Gronau, Dirk Fischer, Julia Bauch, Axel Hoppe

Year: 2021 May

Category: Bioelectromagnetics

Journal: Bioelectromagnetics

DOI: 10.1002/bem.22337

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33822410/

Abstract

Overview

The increasing use of intermediate-frequency magnetic fields, particularly in technologies like wireless car charging, poses potential biological risks due to unavoidable stray fields.

Methodology

This study involved exposing female mice to 20 kHz, 360 µT magnetic fields using a blind study design within Helmholtz coils, comparing them against a control group in several tests to ascertain any risks.

  • Sample Size: 80 mice per group
  • Duration: Continuous exposure from 3 months of age
  • Assessments: Body mass tracking, behavioral tests at 10 months, organ analysis post-mortem

Findings

Despite the extensive exposure:

  • No significant differences in body mass development or survival rates
  • No increase in tumor incidence
  • Behavioral differences observed in Rotarod retention times and a lowered count of rears in open field test

Conclusion

The findings highlight no apparent adverse physical health impacts such as tumors or body development issues due to the exposure. However, altered behaviors observed may suggest increased alertness from EMF exposure, warranting further investigation into subtler effects of EMFs on neurological conditions.

magnetic fields intermediate frequency female mice behavioral tests health risks electromagnetic safety
← Back to Stats