The CB1R of mPFC is involved in anxiety-like behavior induced by 0.8/2.65 GHz dual-frequency electromagnetic radiation

Authors: Sun B, Xue T, Gao AN, Wang XY, Wu S, Liu XM, Zhang LH, Li MH, Zou DF, Gao Y, Wang CZ

Year: 2025 Mar 12

Category: Neuroscience

Journal: Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience

Institution: Department of Environment and Security, China Institute of Information and Communication Technology

DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2025.1534324

URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/molecular-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnmol.2025.1534324/full

Abstract

Overview

With the increasing ubiquity of mobile phones and communication base stations, concerns about multi-frequency electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and its potential mental health risks are growing. This study establishes a mouse model using dual-frequency EMR at 0.8 and 2.65 GHz to explore molecular mechanisms and possible intervention targets.

Findings

  • Exposure to dual-frequency EMR at 0.8/2.65 GHz significantly induced anxiety-like behavior in mice.
  • There was a marked decrease in cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), as well as a decrease in endogenous cannabinoids 2-arachidonoylglycerol and anandamide, resulting in ECS downregulation.
  • Manipulating CB1R in the mPFC revealed:
    • Overexpression of CB1R reduced anxiety-like behaviors.
    • Knockdown of CB1R increased anxiety-like behaviors.
  • Dual-frequency EMR also altered the ECS in the basolateral amygdala (BLA).
  • Female mice exhibited similar behavioral and molecular responses to EMR exposure.

Experimental Setup

  • An electromagnetic reverberation chamber (RC) was used, capable of generating frequencies from 0 to 3 GHz.
  • In this study, 0.8 and 2.65 GHz were applied at 4 W/kg for the animal model.

Conclusion

This study strongly links anxiety-like behavior to dual-frequency EMR exposure through functional changes in the ECS within the mPFC and BLA. The results highlight that altering CB1R expression in the mPFC can significantly modify anxiety outcomes in mice, underscoring the health risks associated with EMF exposure and providing insights for new treatment or prevention strategies regarding EMF-induced adverse emotional effects.

electromagnetic fields anxiety CB1 receptor mPFC endocannabinoid system dual-frequency animal model
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