Chronotoxicity of 1.8 GHz radio-frequency radiation on plasma stress hormones and immune factors in mice

Abstract

Overview

This study explores the impact of 1.8 GHz radio-frequency radiation (RF) on plasma stress hormones and immune factors in mice, investigating the radiation's chronotoxic effects which signify the timing of exposure's influence on biological rhythms.

Methods

• 72 C57 BL mice with established circadian rhythms were divided into 12 groups — 6 Sham groups and 6 RF groups.
• Exposure involved 1.8 GHz RF at 226 μW/cm² for a total of 60 days, with daily exposures lasting 2 hours at specific circadian times.
• Sham groups underwent similar conditions without the electromagnetic signal.
• Plasma stress hormones (ACTH, CORT) and immune factors (GM-CSF, TNF-α) were quantified via ELISA post-exposure.

Findings

The study found significant decreases in the levels of ACTH, CORT, GM-CSF, and TNF-α in RF-exposed groups compared to sham-exposed animals (P<0.05). Not only were the average levels reduced, but circadian rhythms of these compounds were also disrupted or altered notably in their secretion patterns.

Conclusion

Exposure to 1.8 GHz RF radiation adversely affects the secretion and circadian rhythms of stress and immune-related hormones in mice, suggesting potential health risks associated with chronic RF radiation exposure.