Genotoxicity of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields: Protocol for a systematic review of in vitro studies

Authors: Stefania Romeo, Olga Zeni, Anna Sannino, Susanna Lagorio, Mauro Biffoni, Maria Rosaria Scarfì

Year: 2021 Jan 21

Category: Genotoxicology

Journal: Environ Int

Institution: Istituto Superiore di Sanità

DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106386

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33486297/

Abstract

Overview

The widespread exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) ranging from 100 kHz to 300 GHz, generated by wireless communication technologies, raises concerns about potential health risks, including effects on human DNA. Despite being classified as possibly carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2011, substantial gaps and inconsistencies persist in the existing evidence.

Objectives

The primary aim is to design a steadfast protocol for a systematic review to explore the genotoxic effects of RF-EMF on in vitro cellular models. This review will focus on in-depth experimental studies that investigate the correlation between RF-EMF exposure and genotoxicity in mammalian cells.

Methods and Criteria

  • Adherence to the National Toxicology Program-Office of Health Assessment and Translation (NTP-OHAT) guidelines tailored for in vitro assessments.
  • Inclusion of peer-reviewed, experimental in vitro studies furnishing primary data.
  • Comprehensive literature search on platforms like NCBI PubMed, Web of Science, and EMF-Portal, including references from pertinent studies and reviews.

Data Handling and Synthesis

Data extraction will follow standardized forms and synthesize results through tabular and graphical representations alongside a narrative review. A meta-analysis might be conducted depending on the homogeneity of study subgroups concerning exposure characteristics and cellular endpoints.

Risk Assessment and Evidence Appraisal

  • Application of the NTP-OHAT Risk of Bias Rating Tool, modified for in vitro setups.
  • Employment of an OHAT GRADE-based approach to evaluate the confidence in the accumulated evidence.

Framework and Support

This protocol is an integral part of a broader review by Italian research institutions, supported by the Italian Workers' Compensation Authority (INAIL). The focus is to solidify scientific understanding of RF-EMF’s carcinogenic potential.

radiofrequency electromagnetic fields genotoxicity in vitro systematic review carcinogenicity health risk RF-EMF
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