Neurobiological effects and mechanisms of magnetic fields: a review from 2000 to 2023

Authors: Wang X, Ye Y, Zuo H, Li Y

Year: 2024 Nov 8

Category: Neuroscience, Public Health

Journal: BMC Public Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18987-9

URL: https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-18987-9

Abstract

Overview

Magnetic fields are extensively utilized in medical diagnostics for their non-invasive nature. However, with increasing use in transportation and other sectors, the possible hazards and safety concerns of magnetic field exposure have garnered significant attention. This review examines the historical and emerging research surrounding the neurobiological effects of magnetic field exposure from 2000 to 2023.

Findings

  • The effects of magnetic fields on living organisms are influenced by factors such as field strength, exposure time, and direction.
  • Research in mice and rats shows that magnetic fields can trigger various neurobiological effects depending on these parameters.
  • This review summarizes studies focusing on both static and dynamic magnetic fields of varying frequencies and intensities. Key targets of investigation include animals and neuronal cells, and the mechanisms underlying observed changes.

Conclusion

  • Recent years have witnessed an increase in studies exploring the effects of magnetic fields (MFs) on learning, memory, emotional behavior, nerve cells, and neurotransmitters.
  • The diversity in experimental design and MF parameters has led to inconsistent conclusions across studies.
  • Under certain conditions, exposure to magnetic fields can induce changes in emotional behavior, learning, and memory, and can either cause or relieve anxiety-like and depressive behaviors—sometimes with, sometimes without statistically significant effects.
  • MF exposure can alter cellular processes in neurons and glial cells, including proliferation, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis, highlighting the importance of understanding potential health risks.
  • Challenges remain due to the non-specific effects of MFs, making experimental targeting difficult. The review underscores the urgent need to improve animal and neural cell experimental models, as well as the accurate selection of exposure intensity and duration for future studies.
magnetic fields neurobiology health risk animal models cell study static magnetic fields dynamic magnetic fields
← Back to Stats