Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

The study explores the effects of terahertz (THz) radiation on deep tissues, particularly focusing on its interaction with aqueous environments and cellular components.

Findings

• THz radiation, previously considered negligible in its effect due to absorption by water molecules, can transmit energy through an aqueous solution approximating a millimeter in thickness, potentially as a shockwave.
• This transmitted energy can cause the demolition of actin filaments within living cells, suggesting that THz radiation can indeed influence cellular structures.
• Despite these significant structural impacts on actin filaments, the viability of the cells exposed to THz pulses remains unaffected, underscoring the complexity of THz radiation's biological effects.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate the potential of THz waves to serve as an invasive method to specifically alter protein structures in living cells under aquatic conditions without affecting cell viability. This presents a critical insight into the tailored use of THz radiation in biomedical applications and emphasizes the need for further research into its safety implications.