Effect of 900-, 1800-, and 2100-MHz radiofrequency radiation on DNA and oxidative stress in brain

Abstract

Overview

The extensive and rising use of mobile phones has raised significant concerns about the impact of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) emitted from these devices on biological systems. This study investigates the potential effects of long-term exposure to different frequencies of RFR on DNA and oxidative stress markers in rats.

Methodology

• 28 male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four groups (seven rats per group):
• Group 1 served as a sham-control.
• Groups 2 to 4 were exposed to frequencies of 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz respectively.
• All rats, except for the control group, were exposed to 2 hours of RFR daily for six months.
• Specific Absorption Rates (SARs) varied based on frequency: 0.0845 W/kg at 900 MHz, 0.04563 W/kg at 1800 MHz, and 0.03957 W/kg at 2100 MHz.

Findings

The analysis included assessments of malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), total antioxidant status (TAS), and total oxidant status (TOS) in brain tissues. Results indicated significantly higher levels of DNA damage and oxidative stress markers in RFR exposed groups compared to the control.

Notably, the 2100-MHz exposure group showed signs of DNA single-strand breaks, suggesting a frequency-dependent increase in damage severity.

Conclusion

Exposure to different mobile phone radiation frequencies is associated with oxidative stress, increased lipid peroxidation, and DNA damage, particularly at higher frequencies. Caution is advised regarding RFR exposure, and further detailed, long-term studies are essential to deepen understanding and validate these findings.