Abstract

Overview

The influence of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on neural system functions is a topic of growing concern. This study investigates the effects of prolonged exposure to power frequency EMFs on brain cognitive functions, particularly working memory, and explores the underlying mechanisms.

Methodology

• Three groups of Sprague-Dawley rats were used: two exposed to 2 mT power frequency EMFs for 24 or 48 days and a control group with no EMF exposure.
• Local field potentials (LFPs) were recorded from the prefrontal cortex during working memory tasks.
• The causal networks of LFPs were established using the directed transfer function.

Findings

• The rats in the prolonged exposure group (48 days) required more training to achieve the task correction criterion (over 80%).
• Both EMF exposure groups showed significantly lower network connection strength and global efficiency compared to control.
• Notable differences in causal density values were observed between the 48-day exposure group and the others.

Conclusion

Extended exposure to 2 mT power frequency EMFs can deteriorate the connection strength and efficiency of information transfer in the LFPs causal network in the prefrontal cortex, thereby impairing behavioral performance. These findings emphasize the impact of long-term EMF exposure on working memory and support further research into their effects on cognitive functions.