Multi-frequency electromagnetic radiation induces anxiety in mice via inflammation in the cerebral cortex

Authors: Jing X, Menghua L, Lihui Z, Qian W, Xueli W, Xuelong Z, Zhihui L, Guofu D, Changzhen W

Year: 2024 May 9

Category: Neuroscience, Environmental Health

Journal: Environ Sci Pollut Res Int

DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33447-y

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38724846/

Abstract

Overview

Modern life is filled with radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) in various frequency bands, while the health risks are not clear. This study exposed mice to whole-body 0.9/1.5/2.65 GHz radiofrequency radiation at 4 W/kg for 2 hours per day over four weeks, aiming to investigate possible emotional effects.

Findings

  • Exposed mice displayed anxiety but not severe depression.
  • ELISA tests revealed a significant decrease in amino acid neurotransmitters:
    • Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)
    • Dopamine (DA)
    • Serotonin (5-HT)
    Acetylcholine (ACH) levels did not significantly change.
  • Western blot results indicated increased levels of BDNF, TrkB, and CREB in the cerebral cortex, but decreased NF-κB levels.
  • Pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α) were significantly elevated, while anti-inflammatory factors (IL-4, IL-10) decreased.

Conclusion

Multi-frequency electromagnetic radiation induces an inflammatory response via the CREB-BDNF-TrkB and NF-κB pathways in the cerebral cortex and causes a reduction in excitatory neurotransmitters, which ultimately leads to anxiety behaviors in mice.

These findings suggest that multi-frequency RF-EMR can induce anxiety by altering neurotransmitter levels and triggering inflammation in the brain, highlighting an important connection between EMF exposure and mood-related health risks.

The study calls for further in-depth research to clarify the specific mechanisms by which multi-frequency EMR may contribute to negative emotional states.

radiofrequency radiation anxiety inflammation cerebral cortex neurotransmitters mouse model EMF health risk
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