An Evaluation of the Genotoxic Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation at 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz Frequencies with a SMART Assay in Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract

Overview

With the advancement of technology and the increasing spread of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from mobile phones and base stations, there is growing concern about the environmental and human health impacts. This study employs the Drosophila melanogaster model, widely used in genetic toxicology due to its genome's similarity to human disease genes.

Findings

• The investigation used the wing Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART) to analyze the genotoxic effects of radiofrequency EMR at frequencies 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz.
• Observations were made on genetic changes in the trichomes of Drosophila wings, presented as mutant clones.
• Experiments involved exposing Drosophila larvae to EMF for two, four, and six hours daily over two days.
• Statistically significant increases in mutant clones were observed compared to the control group in all treatments except the six-hour exposure at 1800 MHz.

Conclusion

The results overall indicate that EMR exposure led to increased genotoxic effects, highlighting the risks associated with RF-EMR frequencies particularly when considering environmental and public health perspectives.