Effect of Radiofrequency Radiation on Human Hematopoietic Stem Cells

Authors: Gläser K, Rohland M, Kleine-Ostmann T, Schrader T, Stopper H, Hintzsche H

Year: 2016 Oct 6

Category: Radiology

Journal: Radiat Res

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27710704?dopt=Abstract

Abstract

Overview

Exposure to electromagnetic fields in the radiofrequency range is a global phenomenon, predominantly due to the proliferation of mobile communication devices. The number of cell phone users continues to surge as technologies become more advanced and affordable, raising significant interest in the potential low-intensity radiation effects on biological systems.

Findings

  • The study aimed to assess how human hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) respond to mobile phone radiation across technologies such as GSM (900 MHz), UMTS (1,950 MHz), and LTE (2,535 MHz).
  • Radiation exposure varied by duration (4 hours to 66 hours) and intensity (0 to 4 W/kg specific absorption rate).
  • Core end points analyzed included apoptosis, oxidative stress, cell cycle status, DNA damage, and DNA repair mechanisms.

Conclusion

This investigation revealed mostly non-significant effects of radiofrequency radiation on HSC, with the notable exception of a small but significant decrease in DNA damage after 4 hours of GSM modulation exposure compared to controls. This remains an important finding as it suggests potential genotoxicity risks of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, underlining the necessity for further research in this crucial area.

radiofrequency radiation hematopoietic stem cells electromagnetic fields mobile phone radiation health risks
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