5G-exposed human skin cells do not respond with altered gene expression and methylation profiles

Abstract

Overview

The rapid increase in wirelessly transmitted data necessitates the development of new transmission standards and use of higher frequencies, specifically within the 5G band. Despite basic biophysical arguments suggesting minimal health risks, public concern persists regarding this technology's potential effects.

Study Design

• Human skin cells, including fibroblasts and keratinocytes, were exposed to electromagnetic fields up to ten times the permissible limits.
• Exposure durations were 2 hours and 48 hours using a fully blinded experimental approach.
• Sham-exposed cells acted as negative controls, while UV-exposed cells were the positive controls.

Findings

Differences noted in gene expression and DNA methylation profiles resulting from electromagnetic field exposure were found to be minor and consistent with random chance, rather than EMF-induced cellular effects.

Conclusion

These results strongly support the assessment that, under the tested conditions, there is no evidence for exposure-induced damage or health risk for human skin cells based on gene expression and methylation metrics.