Effects of mobile phone emissions on human red blood cells

Authors: Aniket Chowdhury, Yashveer Singh, Uttam Das, Deepak Waghmare, Raktim Dasgupta, Shovan Kumar Majumder

Year: 2021 Apr 19

Category: Biophotonics

Journal: J Biophotonics

DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202100047

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33871929/

Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the impact of GSM 900 MHz and 1800 MHz mobile phone signals on human red blood cells (RBCs) using Raman spectroscopy.

Findings

  • Exposure to mobile phone emissions indicated reduced hemoglobin-oxygen affinity in RBCs.
  • The activation of voltage-gated membrane Ca2+ channels by mobile emissions possibly altered metabolic activities increasing ATP and 2,3-DPG levels.
  • Increased intracellular Ca2+ levels were confirmed using fluorescent Ca2+ indicators.
  • Diffraction phase microscopy and optical tweezers revealed significant changes in the shape and mechanical properties of exposed cells.

Conclusion

This research highlights the biophysical alterations in RBCs exposed to mobile phone radiation, possibly linking to changes in cell functionality and signaling a risk to human health.

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