The Immunomodulatory Effect of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Field on Serum Cytokine Levels in A Mouse Model of Hindlimb Unloading

Authors: Aghajari S, Mortazavi SMJ, Kalani M, Nematolahi S, Habibzadeh P, Farjadian S

Year: 2021 Jan

Category: Immunology, Space Medicine

Journal: Cell J

DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2021.6856

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32347032

Abstract

Overview

The study focuses on understanding how radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) can modulate the immune system in conditions simulating spaceflight, utilizing a mouse model for experimental analysis.

Objective

The objective is to explore the adaptive immune response induced by RF-EMF in mice under simulated spaceflight conditions, which typically depress the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections and diseases.

Materials and Methods

  • Type of Study: Experimental
  • Subjects: Four groups of mice, 10 per group
  • Conditions: Hindlimb unloading (HU) and RF-EMF exposure
  • RF-EMF Frequency: 2450 MHz with SAR of 0.478 W/kg
  • Exposure Duration: 12 hours per day for three successive days
  • Assays Used: Multiplex cytometric bead assay for cytokine levels

Findings

Cytokine changes were monitored, including TNF-α, IL-9, IL-22, and IFN-γ. Key findings are:

  • Significant decrease of TNF-α, IL-9, and IL-22 in HU mice.
  • Opposite changes observed in IL-6 levels between HU and RF-EMF treated mice.
  • Reduction of IFN-γ only in HU mice pre-exposed to RF-EMF.

Conclusion

The study concludes that RF-EMF may help modulate immune responses adversely affected by conditions simulating spaceflight, suggesting its potential for protective strategies against immunosuppressive effects of such conditions.

electromagnetic fields cytokines mouse model spaceflight immunomodulation radiofrequency health risk
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