Effects of Simultaneous In-Vitro Exposure to 5G-Modulated 3.5 GHz and GSM-Modulated 1.8 GHz Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields on Neuronal Network Electrical Activity and Cellular Stress in Skin Fibroblast Cells

Authors: Hurtier A, Patrignoni L, Canovi A, Orlacchio R, Tjiou H, Gannes FP, Garenne A, Lévêque P, Arnaud-Cormos D, Lagroye I, Lewis N, Percherancier Y

Year: 2025 Oct

Category: Bioelectromagnetics, In Vitro Research

Journal: Bioelectromagnetics

DOI: 10.1002/bem.70026

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41104878/

Abstract

Overview

With the rapid rollout of 5G wireless networks and continued GSM technology use, evaluating the biological impacts of co-exposure to multiple radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) is increasingly important. This study investigates the in-vitro effects of simultaneous 5G-modulated 3.5 GHz and GSM-modulated 1.8 GHz signals on neuronal network activity, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and cellular stress protein responses in both neurons and skin fibroblasts.

Methods & Experimental Setup

  • Primary cortical neurons and human immortalized skin fibroblasts exposed to RF-EMF at SARs of 1 or 4 W/kg for 15 minutes (neurons) or 24 hours (fibroblasts).
  • Neuronal activity was evaluated via multi-electrode arrays (MEAs).
  • Mitochondrial ROS was measured using MitoSOX Red.
  • Stress protein activity was tested using BRET assays targeting RAS, PML, and HSF1.

Findings

  • No significant changes in mean bursting or firing rates of cortical neurons at given SAR levels.
  • Mitochondrial ROS production in fibroblasts was unaltered by co-exposure.
  • BRET assays found only minor, threshold-level variations in basal RAS and PML activity; no consistent pattern or significant cell stress response was observed.
  • No changes in HSF1 activity with RF-EMF exposure.

Conclusion

Exposure to combined 5G and GSM RF-EMF at SARs up to 4 W/kg does not yield strong evidence of biological effects in neurons or skin fibroblasts in-vitro. The small observed changes are likely within the range of experimental variability, and no marked stress responses were detected under these conditions.

Key Points

  • Simultaneous exposure (4 W/kg, 15 min) does not modify neuronal network firing characteristics.
  • 24-h exposures at 1 or 4 W/kg do not alter ROS or stress protein outcomes in human skin fibroblasts.
  • Minor activity variations detected but not consistent nor robust.

Note: Even in studies with minimal observed effects, EMF exposures have the capacity to interact with biological tissues, and further research is necessary to fully understand potential risks, especially considering cumulative exposures and sensitive populations.

5G GSM RF-EMF neuronal activity skin fibroblasts oxidative stress cellular stress proteins
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