Short-term exposure of 2.4 GHz electromagnetic radiation on cellular ROS generation and apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cell line and impact on developing chick embryo brain tissue

Authors: Deena K, Maadurshni GB, Manivannan J, Sivasamy R

Year: 2025 Jan 21

Category: Neuroscience, Cellular Biology

Journal: Mol Biol Rep

DOI: 10.1007/s11033-025-10217-8

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39836269/

Abstract

Overview

Electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from wireless technology and mobile phones operates at various frequencies, raising important questions about its health implications. This study focuses on the short-term exposure to 2.4 GHz EMR and its effects on two biological models: developing chick embryos and SH-SY5Y neuronal cell lines.

Methods

  • Chick embryos received continuous 2.4 GHz EMR exposure for 4 hours daily, over 5 days.
  • Post-exposure, embryonic brain tissues underwent histopathological analysis, antioxidant assays, and ROS detection.
  • SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to 2.4 GHz EMR to assess viability, DNA damage, and apoptosis.

Findings

  • Exposure to 2.4 GHz EMR induced oxidative stress in both chick embryos and SH-SY5Y cells.
  • In SH-SY5Y cells, there was increased ROS production after 4 hours, moderate DNA damage, and early apoptosis marked by Bax gene upregulation.
  • Micro-level surface modifications of brain tissue were detected under scanning electron microscopy, despite no significant changes observed in conventional histopathology.
  • Antioxidant enzyme activity shifted: SOD levels increased, CAT levels remained stable.
  • Antioxidants like NAC and Mito-TEMPO effectively reduced EMR-induced cytotoxicity in both models.

Conclusion

Short-term (4 hours) exposure to 2.4 GHz EMR can provoke moderate oxidative stress and early apoptosis at the cellular level, with potential biological harm. Although structural tissue changes were not prominent in the chick embryo model, cellular and molecular alterations—including DNA damage and early apoptosis—were clearly evident, indicating a connection between EMR and biological risk.

Use of antioxidants demonstrated protective effects, suggesting a possible intervention against EMR harm. Importantly, the study warns that extending exposure duration could increase health risks, supporting the need for precautionary measures and further research into EMF exposure and safety.

electromagnetic radiation 2.4 GHz oxidative stress apoptosis SH-SY5Y cells chick embryo ROS
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