Extremely high-frequency electromagnetic radiation enhances neutrophil response to particulate agonists

Abstract

Overview

The utilization of extremely high-frequency electromagnetic radiation (EHF EMR) has expanded in recent years, be it for modern information technologies or various biomedical uses. This shift has prompted a reinvestigation into the biological effects that these millimeter waves (MMWs) might exert on living organisms.

Experimental Setup

In our study, the influence of EHF EMR on neutrophil activation was explored. We utilized two primary triggers, opsonized zymosan and E. coli, administered to whole blood ex vivo. Post addition of these agonists, we prepared two experimental setups: a control sample kept under ambient conditions and a test sample subjected to EHF EMR (at frequencies between 32.9 to 39.6 GHz and intensity of 100 W/m2).

Findings

• The exposure to MMW radiation for a duration of 15 minutes resulted in a significantly enhanced response by the neutrophils to the agonists.
• Methods such as luminol-dependent chemiluminescence helped measure oxidant production, revealing heightened activity in irradiated samples.
• Blood smears confirmed that morphofunctional integrity of neutrophils was maintained across both control and irradiated samples, provided no agonists were present before incubation.

Conclusion

This study underscores potential health risks associated with the exposure to MMW radiation, showing an intensified immune response that could reflect broader physiological changes. We advocate for continued research into the safety regulations of EMR exposure, particularly at these high frequencies which are becoming ever more prevalent in daily applications.