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

Abstract

Overview

The study explores the risks associated with intermediate-frequency magnetic fields generated during wireless power transfer in electric vehicles. With the increase in such technologies, establishing potential health implications due to stray electromagnetic fields is crucial.

Methodology

Eighty female mice were exposed to a constant 360 µT, 20 kHz magnetic field from the age of three months under continued observation up to ten months, in comparison to a control group. Observations included body mass tracking and behavior analysis through various tests.

Findings

• No significant difference in the development of body mass and survival rates between exposed and control groups.
• Behavioral tests revealed no differences in the complex 8-arm maze task, indicating unaffected spatial memory.
• Significant variations in Rotarod performance suggest potential differences in motor functions, potentially indicating increased alertness or anxiety in exposed mice.
• The open field test showed a decreased number of supported rears in exposed mice, which could hint at changes in general activity levels or anxiety.

Conclusion

While no definitive adverse effects were found on physical health or cancer rates, the significant alterations in certain behavioral assessments suggest that exposure to these fields could correlate with subtle neurological changes. The relevance of these findings to human health, particularly in environments with similar electromagnetic exposure, warrants further investigation.