Altered development in rodent brain cells after 900 MHz radiofrequency exposure

Authors: Bodin R, Godin L, Mougin C, Lecomte A, Larrigaldie V, Feat-Vetel J, Méresse S, Montécot-Dubourg C, Marcelo P, Mortaud S, Villegier AS

Year: 2025 Sep 2

Category: Neurotoxicology

Journal: Neurotoxicology

DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2025.103312

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161813X2500110X?via%3Dihub

Abstract

Overview

Health risks related to 900 MHz 2G frequency exposure remain inconclusive under current regulatory standards. With the increased use of mobile networks and wireless devices, ongoing research is critical to understand potential long-term effects.

Methodology

This study investigates how non-thermal exposure to 900 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF)—a typical frequency used in mobile phones—affects rodent neurodevelopment. Specifically, both in vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted, assessing prenatal and postnatal exposures at 0.08 and 0.4 W/kg specific absorption rate (SAR). Proteomic profiles at postnatal day 0 (PND 0), and key neurodevelopmental biomarkers in the hippocampus and cortex of rat pups, were evaluated at PND 8 and PND 17.

Findings

  • In vivo exposure resulted in decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), reduced proliferation of BrdU+ cells, and disrupted synaptic balance (excitatory/inhibitory synapses).
  • In vitro exposure at 0.08 W/kg led to increased Ki-67+ cell proliferation, apoptosis, and DNA double-strand breaks in neural stem cells (NSCs).
  • There was a shift in the cell population of exposed NSCs, with fewer B1 (primary progenitor) cells and more oligodendrocyte progenitor cells and astrocytes.

Highlights

  • Exposure reduced cortex cell proliferation, BDNF, and synapse balance.
  • Decreased hippocampal synapse density and balance after exposure.
  • Proteomics revealed dysregulation of proteins essential for synaptic signaling.
  • In vitro exposure caused a rise in apoptosis, DNA damage, and altered glial differentiation.
  • Even regulatory-level 900 MHz RF-EMF exposure affects neurodevelopmental processes in rodents.

Conclusion

The data suggest that RF-EMF exposure at 900 MHz, even at regulatory threshold levels, can disrupt key neurodevelopmental events during early development in rodents. These findings indicate a vulnerability of the developing central nervous system to RF-EMF exposures. Strong consideration should be given to the potential connection between electromagnetic fields and neurodevelopmental health risks.

RF-EMF radiofrequency neurodevelopment rodent BDNF synaptogenesis oxidative stress
← Back to Stats