Abstract

Overview

The extent and methodology of how nonthermal radiofrequency radiation (RFR) impacts the nervous system are explored in this study using a mouse model.

Findings

• The study sets up an animal model by exposing mice to 2856-MHz RFR at levels akin to thermal noise. This protocol does not raise ambient temperature by more than 1°C.
• Despite the exposure, glutamate release in the dorsal hippocampus CA1 region remains unaffected. However, a significant decrease in dopamine release is noted.
• Interestingly, calcium activity in glutamatergic CA1 pyramidal neurons is increased due to nonthermal RFR effects. This activity returns to baseline once the RFR exposure is terminated.
• The study further identifies the mechanistic pathway behind the reduced dopamine release as a decline in the density of dopaminergic projections from the locus coeruleus to the dorsal hippocampus.
• Memory improvements were observed when dopamine axon terminals or D1 receptors in the dorsal hippocampus CA1 were artificially activated in mice previously exposed to RFR.

Conclusion

This research emphasizes the potential risks and neural changes induced by nonthermal RFR exposure, impacting neuronal function at the circuit level and highlighting important health implications regarding environmental exposure to RFR.