Radiofrequency regulates the BET-mediated pathways in radial glia differentiation in human cortical development

Authors: Cakir B, Tanaka Y, Choe MS, Kiral FR, Kim J, Micali N, Kang YJ, Dharmadhikari B, Patterson B, Yang WS, Cho Y, Xiang Y, Zhong M, Lee SH, Patra P, Rakic P, Park IH

Year: 2025 Sep 24

Category: Neuroscience

Journal: Cell Reports

Institution: Not specified

DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2025.116238

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211124725010095

Abstract

Overview

The human brain is an intricate organ whose development is regulated by complex genetic and increasingly recognized non-genetic factors. Environmental exposures, such as radiofrequency (RF) radiation from sources like microwaves and cell phones, are emerging areas of concern for brain health and development.

Findings

  • RF exposure (800–2,400 MHz) modulates the differentiation pathways of human cortical organoids derived from embryonic stem cells.
  • When exposed to RF, human and non-human primate radial glia progenitors experience maintained stem cell identity and a delay in differentiation, suggesting a disruption in typical neural maturation.
  • RF treatment also triggers the expression of human endogenous retroviruses in neurons differentiated under its exposure.
  • The negative neurodevelopmental impact of RF is mechanistically mediated through dysregulation of BET (bromodomain and extraterminal) proteins.
  • Importantly, inhibition of BET proteins is shown to rescue the developmental defects induced by RF, providing a possible intervention route.
  • RF exposure induced expression of genes associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and retroelements in cortical organoids.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that RF exposure actively modulates early brain development by altering neural stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. The work highlights a molecular mechanism involving BET proteins, directly linking electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure to changes in neurodevelopmental pathways and potential autism susceptibility.

Takeaway: Environmental RF exposure can disrupt crucial neurodevelopmental processes, underscoring the importance of considering EMF safety and regulatory guidelines, particularly related to children's brain development.

radiofrequency neurodevelopment cortical organoids BET proteins stem cells radial glia electromagnetic fields
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