Abstract

Overview

Despite the extensive use and benefits of microwaves in daily life, there are growing concerns about their potential neurological impacts. This study explores how low-intensity microwaves, specifically amplitude-modulated at frequencies significant to brain function, affect mice.

Findings

• Exposure to 10 GHz microwaves, modulated at 8 Hz (within the alpha-theta EEG frequencies linked to active behavior), decreased locomotor activity in mice immediately post-exposure. However, this effect was temporary and normalized after four weeks.
• Conversely, a 2 Hz modulation (delta band related to sleep) showed no significant impact on locomotor activity both immediately and four weeks post-exposure.
• Other variables such as motor coordination, spatial working memory, anxiety, or depressive-like behaviors remained unchanged.
• Neurochemical analysis revealed no significant changes in striatal dopamine levels or cortical glutamate concentrations.
• The specific absorbance rate was noted at 0.3 W/kg, causing a slight increase in brain temperature by approximately 0.23°C during exposure.

Conclusion

This exploratory study suggests a temporary alteration in locomotor activity due to exposure to 8 Hz amplitude-modulated microwaves, pointing to a potential risk to brain functions, although further studies are needed to fully understand the implications and mechanisms.