Millimeter Wave Radiation Activates Leech Nociceptors via TRPV1-Like Receptor Sensitization

Authors: Romanenko S, Harvey AR, Hool L, Fan S, Wallace VP

Year: 2019 Apr 25

Category: Biophysics

Journal: Biophys J

DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2019.04.021

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31103236

Abstract

Overview

The study investigates the effects of millimeter wave (MMW) radiation on the cellular functions, particularly focusing on neurons. This research explores how MMWs interact differently compared to traditional thermal heating, impacting sensory neurons and cortical brain slices.

Findings

  • Exposure to MMWs at levels below 1 mW/cm2, which is under the recommended safety limits, causes significant changes in the neuronal function of both leech and rat neurons.
  • Specifically, MMW exposure led to a substantial decrease in the activation threshold of action potentials in medicinal leech's nociceptors compared to thermal heating, suggesting a different underlying mechanism.
  • The study highlights that the sensitization of the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1-like receptors due to MMW exposure is likely responsible for these observed changes rather than changes in conductance of sodium and potassium ions.

Conclusion

Encourages further research into the unique biological effects of millimeter wave exposure, emphasizing the need to evaluate current safety standards regarding MMW radiation and its potentially harmful effects on neuronal tissue, especially since these effects stand out from those caused by conventional heating methods.

millimeter waves nociceptors TRPV1-like receptor neuronal activation EMF safety
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