Abstract

Abstract Summary

Overview

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeation and neuron degeneration were assessed in the rat brain following exposure to mobile communication radiofrequency (RF) signals (GSM-1800 and UMTS-1950). This involved two experimental protocols.

Protocols Used

• Single Exposure: Rats were exposed for a single 2 hour session, with subsequent evaluations immediately, and 1, 7, or 50 days later.
• Repeated Exposures: Rats underwent repeated exposures (2 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 4 weeks). Assessments were made immediately and 50 days post-exposure.

Exposure Details

Rats' heads were exposed at various brain-averaged specific absorption rates (BASAR) of 0.026, 0.26, 2.6, and 13 W/kg.

Findings

• No significant adverse impacts were observed in terms of BBB leakage or neuron degeneration immediately after single exposures or at the end of the repeated exposure protocol.
• A transient BBB leakage was noted under UMTS signal exposure at 0.26 W/kg.
• Fifty days after the end of the repeated exposure, there was a noticeable increase in albumin leakage with both types of RF signals at the highest exposure rate of 13 W/kg, highlighting potential long-term effects.

Conclusion

The study indicates significant risks related to long-term, high-level RF exposure with indications of BBB permeation and potential neuron degeneration, emphasizing the crucial need for further studies on RF impact at high exposure levels.