The effect of exposure to non-ionising radiofrequency field on Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca and Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms

Abstract

Overview

An environment with a higher accumulation of electromagnetic non-ionising radiofrequency (RF) emissions from devices like mobile phones, Wi-Fi, and radar, poses significant implications for biological systems. This study investigates the impact of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on bacterial biofilm development in common pathogens.

Findings

• Three bacterial isolates were examined: Escherichia coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• These bacteria were exposed to EMF frequencies of 1-5 and 2.4 GHz for durations of 3 or 24 hours. Results varied significantly depending on the frequency.
• Key findings highlight that EMF exposure led to increased biofilm production at 1, 2, and 4 GHz, indicating stress-induced bacterial aggregation.
• Conversely, frequencies of 3 and 5 GHz showed biofilm inhibition, highlighting frequency-dependent effects on bacterial physiology.
• Wi-Fi operating at 2.4 GHz was specifically noted to reduce biofilm formation.

Conclusion

EMF exposure can either stimulate or inhibit bacterial biofilm formation, significantly impacting the pathogenicity of these organisms. EMF plays dual roles: promoting resistance and virulence in some settings, while serving as a potential tool for biofilm management in others, such as on medical devices. The study underscores the necessity of further research into EMF's comprehensive impact on microbial behavior including antibiotic resistance.

Attention: Ignoring the prevalence of non-ionising RF radiation could lead to increased infectious diseases and complications, a serious public health concern.