Abstract

Overview of the Study

The increasing use of microwave technologies in daily life has heightened concerns about their potential health hazards. This study focuses on the effects of 1.5 GHz and 4.3 GHz microwaves on rats, exploring immune responses through transcriptomic and proteomic analysis.

Experimental Design

Rats were exposed to microwaves at 1.5 GHz (L10), 4.3 GHz (C10), or a combination of both (LC10) frequencies, with an average power density of 10 mW/cm². Observations were made for single and multi-frequency microwave exposures.

Findings

• Pathological changes were observed in the thymus and spleen, hinting at potential health risks.
• Reductions in white blood cells and lymphocytes indicate immune suppression occurred shortly after exposure.
• Differential responses were noted in B and T lymphocytes, with B lymphocytes increasing and T lymphocytes decreasing particularly in multi-frequency exposure groups.
• Both types of microwaves influenced many genes linked to immune regulation and cellular metabolism, with a stronger effect observed in multi-frequency exposures.

Conclusion

Exposure to 1.5 GHz and 4.3 GHz microwave frequencies, notably multi-frequency exposure, leads to immune suppressive responses by affecting key genetic components involved in immune regulation and cellular metabolism. These findings highlight potential emerging risks associated with exposure to multiple frequencies of microwaves frequently used in communication technologies.