I have been circulating abstracts of newly-published scientific papers on radio frequency and other non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF) monthly since 2016. The complete collection contains more than 2000 abstracts with links to these papers. Several hundred EMF scientists around the world receive these updates.
To download Volume 3 which contains abstracts of papers published since 2024
(including the new papers listed below) click on the following link (331 page pdf):
To download Volume 2 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2021 through 2023
click on the following link (867 page pdf):
To download Volume 1 which contains abstracts of papers published from 2016 through 2020
click on the following link (875 page pdf):
The abstracts for recently published papers appear below.
The effects of radiofrequency radiation on male
reproductive health and potential mechanisms (Review)
Bektas H, Dasdag S. The effects of radiofrequency radiation on male
reproductive health and potential mechanisms. Electromagn Biol Med. 2025
Mar 19:1-26. doi: 10.1080/15368378.2025.2480664.
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated that radiofrequency (RF) radiation
emanating from devices such as mobile phones and Wi-Fi may have adverse
effects on male reproductive health. This radiation can elevate
testicular temperature, potentially compromising sperm quality and DNA
integrity, and influence the specific absorption rate (SAR) across
different body regions, leading to detrimental reproductive outcomes.
Furthermore, exposure to RF radiation has been linked to conditions that
could affect male reproductive function, such as oxidative stress,
alterations in ion transitions across cell membranes, and inflammation.
The article reviews research conducted on both humans and animal models
regarding the effects of electromagnetic radiation on sperm quality, DNA
damage, oxidative stress, hormone levels, and testicular function,
suggesting that exposure to electromagnetic radiation could have harmful
implications for male reproductive health. However, further research is
necessary to fully understand the mechanisms and implications of
non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation on male infertility.
Plain-language Summary
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.
In this review, the effects of RF on male reproduction and the mechanisms related to them were examined and the results were discussed. “The effects of RF on sperm, reproductive hormones and testis, occupational exposure and male reproductive health, mechanisms of RF effects on reproductive system” were discussed here. In conclusion, further research is necessary to fully understand the mechanisms and implications of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation on male infertility.
Excerpts
A total of 90 articles were evaluated in this review.
The effects of RF radiation on sperm
In conclusion, despite an incomplete understanding of the precise
mechanisms underlying the impact of non-thermal RF radiation on sperm
and testicular function, research across animal and human studies
consistently suggests a connection between increased levels of ROS
and/or DNA damage and negative impacts on fertility factors. This
indicates that the negative effects of RF radiation on sperm parameters
may primarily be linked to the induction of ROS. Furthermore, the
variability in study outcomes underscores the complexity of RF
radiation’s effects, which may be influenced by factors such as exposure
duration, frequency, and individual susceptibility. Therefore, limiting
mobile phone use may be advisable to mitigate the incidence of male
infertility. However, further research is warranted to explore the
long-term effects of mobile phone radiation on male fertility and the
generalizability of these findings (). Future studies should aim to
clarify the specific biological pathways affected by RF radiation and
standardize experimental protocols to resolve inconsistencies in the
literature.
The effects of RF radiation on DNA
In conclusion, these studies highlight the harmful effects of RF
radiation on male reproductive health, including DNA damage, decreased
sperm mobility and vitality, increased DNA fragmentation, and oxidative
stress. The variability in the findings, driven by differences in study
design, exposure parameters, and biological models, suggests that the
biological impact of RF radiation may be multifactorial, involving
complex interactions between ROS production, DNA repair mechanisms, and
cellular apoptosis pathways. It is advisable to limit RF exposure by
keeping mobile phones away from the pelvic region and minimizing the use
of RF-emitting electronic devices. However, given the inconsistent
outcomes across various studies, future research should focus on
standardizing experimental conditions and exploring the dose-response
relationship to better understand the threshold levels at which RF
radiation becomes detrimental to reproductive health. Further research
is necessary to fully understand the long-term implications of RF
radiation on human reproductive health.
The effects of RF radiation on reproductive hormones and testis
In conclusion, the research discussed in this section indicates that RF
radiation exposure could negatively affect male reproductive health,
leading to changes in hormone levels, testicular morphology, and sperm
count and viability (). Prolonged exposure to wireless internet and
mobile phones has been associated with alterations such as increased
abnormalities in sperm heads and reduced weight of reproductive organs.
Additionally, RF radiation can impact testicular parenchyma in rats,
resulting in irregularly shaped seminiferous tubules with epithelial
cell abnormalities. The complexity of these findings suggests that RF
radiation may induce a cascade of biological responses, including
oxidative stress, hormonal imbalances, and apoptotic processes, which
collectively contribute to testicular damage and compromised
reproductive health. The observed effects appear to be dose-dependent,
with longer durations and higher intensities of RF exposure correlating
with more severe reproductive outcomes. These findings emphasize the
importance of avoiding long-term exposure to RF radiation emissions,
particularly from wireless technologies, to prevent potential harm to
male reproductive health. Future research should focus on elucidating
the precise mechanisms by which RF radiation affects the reproductive
system and identifying potential protective strategies to mitigate these
effects.
In conclusion, the diverse findings from these studies shed light on the
complex relationship between occupational exposure, particularly to
radiofrequency radiation, and male reproductive health outcomes (). The
variability in study outcomes highlights the challenges in establishing a
clear causal link, suggesting that individual susceptibility, exposure
duration, and the specific characteristics of RF equipment used in
different occupational settings may play significant roles. Further
research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to
inform occupational health guidelines and practices. Future studies
should focus on standardizing exposure assessment methods and consider
long-term monitoring of workers in high-risk occupations to better
understand the cumulative effects of RF radiation. Additionally,
exploring potential protective strategies, such as shielding
technologies and exposure limits, could be critical in mitigating the
reproductive risks associated with occupational RF exposure.
Conclusion
This study comprehensively examined the mechanisms by which RF radiation may impact male reproductive health, focusing on both thermal and non-thermal pathways. The findings indicate that RF exposure, particularly through increased oxidative stress, ionic imbalances, and inflammation, can disrupt spermatogenesis and impair sperm quality. While thermal effects highlight the role of testicular temperature elevation, non-thermal mechanisms such as ROS generation and ionic dysregulation further emphasize the multifaceted nature of RF-induced reproductive toxicity. Despite the robust body of evidence, inconsistencies across studies warrant standardized research protocols to resolve methodological discrepancies. Future investigations should prioritize long-term exposure assessments and explore protective strategies to mitigate the risks associated with RF radiation. These efforts are critical for informing public health guidelines and ensuring reproductive health safety in the era of pervasive wireless communication technologies. Findings underline the importance of revisiting current regulatory standards to better protect reproductive health.
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Use of Mobile and Cordless Phones and the Association with Prostate Cancer
Hardell L, Carlberg M. Use of Mobile and Cordless Phones and
The Association with Prostate Cancer. Fortune Journal of Health
Sciences, 8 (2025): 267-273. doi: 10.26502/fjhs.273
Abstract
Exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation in the frequency range 30
kHz–300 GHz was in 2011 evaluated by the International Agency for
Research on Cancer (IARC) at the World Health Organization (WHO) to be a
‘possible’ human carcinogen, Group 2B. This was based on
epidemiological results on increased risk for glioma and acoustic
neuroma. Results on other cancer types are sparse. An increased
incidence in male rats of proliferative lesions in the prostate gland
induced by RF radiation was found in the US NTP study. Thus, it was
pertinent to study an association with prostate cancer in human studies.
We analyzed data in two of our previous studies, one on brain tumors
(only deceased subjects; those who died from prostate cancer were
defined as cases) and another on prostate cancer (living subjects) that
included similar questions on use of mobile phones or cordless phones.
The pooled analysis gave for mobile phone use OR = 1.8, 95 % CI =
1.01-3.1, increasing in the >10 year latency group to OR = 2.8, 95 %
CI = 1.5-5.3. Also, use of the cordless phone gave increased risk,
although not statistically significant. Dose-response analysis gave
highest risk for >2,000 h use of the mobile phone with OR = 2.4, 95 %
CI = 1.2-5.1. The cordless phone yielded highest risk in the group
1001-2000 h with OR = 2.3, 95 % CI = 1.01-5.4. Lower OR was seen for use
> 2,000 h but based on low numbers. Higher risk was seen in cases
with more aggressive cancer based on Gleason score, PSA, and high risk
profile, and among subjects with heredity for prostate cancer.
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Disease burden, risk factors, and trends of primary central nervous system (CNS) cancer: A global study of registries data
My note: Because it can take up to three decades for a solid tumor to be diagnosed and be reported in tumor registries, it is important to model the latency when examining tumor incidence data. Nonetheless, it is tricky trying to interpret ecological studies. Moreover, trends over time in tumor incidence can be difficult to interpret due to changes in screening, diagnostic and reporting procedures.
Huang J, Chan SC, Lok V, Zhang L, Lin X,
Lucero-Prisno DE, Xu W, Zheng ZJ, Elcarte E, Withers M, Wong MCS; NCD
Global Health Research Group; Association of Pacific Rim Universities
(APRU). Disease burden, risk factors, and trends of primary central
nervous system (CNS) cancer: A global study of registries data. Neuro
Oncol. 2023 May 4;25(5):995-1005. doi: 10.1093/neuonc/noac213.
Key Points
Brain cancer burden was higher in more developed countries and male population.
Brain cancer was related to HDI, GDP, brain injuries, carcinogens, and phone use.
There was an increasing trend of brain cancer in the younger male population.
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to evaluate the global incidence, mortality, associated risk factors, and temporal trends of central nervous system (CNS) cancer by sex, age, and country.
Methods: We extracted incidence and mortality of CNS cancer from the GLOBOCAN (2020), Cancer Incidence in Five Continents series I-X, WHO mortality database, the Nordic Cancer Registries, and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program. We searched the Global Health data exchanges for the prevalence of its associated risk factors. We tested the trends by Average Annual Percentage Change (AAPC) from Joinpoint regression analysis with 95% confidence intervals in different age groups.
Results: The age-standardized rates (ASRs) of CNS cancer incidence and mortality were 3.5 and 2.8 per 100,000 globally. Southern Europe (ASR = 6.0) and Western Asia (ASR = 4.2) had the highest incidence and mortality, respectively. The incidence was associated with Human Development Index [HDI], Gross Domestics Products per capita [GDP], prevalence of traumatic brain injuries, occupational carcinogens exposure, and mobile phone use at the country level. There was an overall stable and mixed trend in the CNS cancer burden. However, increasing incidence was observed in younger male population from five countries, with Slovakia (AAPC = 5.40; 95% CI 1.88, 9.04; P = .007) reporting the largest increase.
Conclusions: While the overall global trends of cancer have been largely stable, significant increasing trends were found in the younger male population. The presence of some higher-HDI countries with increasing mortality suggested an ample scope for further research and exploration of the reasons behind these epidemiological trends.
Excerpts
"There
are inconsistent results reporting by different settings of studies
regarding the associations between mobile phone use and CNS cancer.
Although some studies show mobile phone use was not associated with an
increased risk of brain cancer, 45–47 they may have suffered from poor
exposure assessment that likely contributed to exposure
mis-classification. 48 A meta-analysis of 11 studies found a significant
positive association between long-term ipsilateral mobile phone use and
the risk of glioma (OR = 1.46, 95% CI 1.12–1.92). 49 Another
meta-analysis showed a similar significant 1.33 times increase in risk.
11 A more recent meta-analysis of 46 studies found increased CNS cancer
incidence with cumulative call time of 1000 or more hours. 50"
"Higher CNS cancer incidence was associated with a higher-HDI (βmale = 0.87, CI 0.66–1.08, P < .001; βfemale = 0.59, CI 0.45–0.73, P < .001), GDP per capita (βmale = 0.49, CI 0.32–0.66, P < .001; βfemale = 0.30, CI 0.18–0.42, P < .001), and higher prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (βmale = 2.92, CI 2.47–3.37, P < .001; βfemale = 2.79, CI 2.35–3.24, P < .001), occupational carcinogens (βmale = 1.39, CI 0.13–2.66, P = .031; βfemale = 0.78, CI 0.06–1.49, P = .034), and mobile [phone] use (βmale = 2.07, CI 0.83–3.30, P = .001; βfemale = 1.43, CI 0.61–2.24, P = .001) but not with exposure to unsafe water (P > .05 for both sexes; Figure 2)."
"Higher CNS cancer mortality was associated with a higher-HDI (βmale = 0.58, CI 0.41–0.74, P < .001; βfemale = 0.37, CI 0.26–0.47, P < .001), GDP per capita (βmale = 0.29, CI 0.16–0.42, P < .001; βfemale = 0.18, CI 0.09–0.26, P < .001), and higher prevalence of traumatic brain injuries (βmale = 1.96, CI 1.60–2.32, P < .001; βfemale = 1.64, CI 1.28–2.00, P < .001), occupational carcinogens (βmale = 1.06, CI 0.12–2.00, P = .027; βfemale = 0.63, CI 0.12–1.14, P = .016), and mobile [phone] use (βmale = 1.34, CI 0.42–2.25, P = .005; βfemale = 0.81, CI 0.22–1.39, P = .007) but not with the exposure to unsafe water (P > .05 for both sexes; Figure 3)."
"The largest incidence and mortality of CNS cancer were found in
populations with very high HDI. The high incidence could be attributable
to the ample resources in early detection with advanced diagnostic
techniques and regular health check-ups while the high mortality could
be ascribed to higher exposure to its related risk factors, such as
traumatic brain injuries, occupational carcinogens exposure, and mobile
phone use. While the overall global trends of cancer have been largely
stable, significant increasing trends were found in the younger male
population. The presence of some higher-HDI countries with increasing
mortality suggested an ample scope for further research and exploration
of the reasons behind these epidemiological trends."
Open access paper: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
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Could electrohypersensitivity be a specific form of high sensory processing sensitivity?
Bordarie J, Ledent M, Dieudonné M, Choisay F,
De Clercq E. Could electrohypersensitivity be a specific form of high
sensory processing sensitivity? Front Public Health. 2025 Feb
28;13:1550427. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1550427.
Abstract
Introduction: Electrohypersensitivity (EHS) refers to a syndrome in which individuals claim to suffer from a variety of symptoms that they attribute to electromagnetic fields. The characteristics of this specific hypersensitivity, particularly in terms of symptoms, are similar to those associated with high sensory processing sensitivity (HSPS). This article raises the question of the superposition of these two types of sensitivity and investigates the existence of a link between the two.
Methods: Participants (n = 100) completed a questionnaire measuring EHS and HSPS, as well as absorption, risk perception and avoidance strategies related to electromagnetic fields, and anxiety and depressive disorders.
Results: They showed an overrepresentation of highly sensitive people within the electrohypersensitive group. Furthermore, the results showed differences in terms of anxiety-depressive symptomatology and cognitive strategies (risk perception and avoidance strategies).
Discussion: The article discusses these results in the light of the literature and suggests avenues for future research and ways to help highly sensitive people, whether wor not this condition is considered to be caused by electromagnetic radiation.
Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/
Self-diagnosing electromagnetic hypersensitivity—A case study
Parsaei H, Faraz M, Mortazavi SMJ (2024). A Decision Support System for Managing Health Symptoms of Living Near Mobile Phone Base Stations. Journal of Biomedical Physics and Engineering, (), -. doi: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2310-1667.
Abstract
Background: The rapid increase in the number of Mobile Phone Base Stations (MPBS) has raised global concerns about the potential adverse health effects of exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (RF-EMF). The application of machine learning techniques can enable healthcare professionals and policymakers to proactively address concerns surrounding RF-EMF exposure near MPBS.
Objective: The current study aimed to investigate the potential of machine learning models for the prediction of health symptoms associated with RF-EMF exposure in individuals residing near MPBS.
Material and Methods: This analytical study utilized Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF) algorithms, incorporating 11 predictors related to participants’ living conditions. A total of 699 adults participated in the study, and model performance was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and the Area Under Curve (AUC).
Results: The SVM-based model demonstrated strong performance, with accuracies of 85.3%, 82%, 84%, 82.4%, and 65.1% for headache, sleep disturbance, dizziness, vertigo, and fatigue, respectively. The corresponding AUC values were 0.99, 0.98, 0.920, 0.89, and 0.81. Compared to the RF model and a previously developed model, the SVM-based model exhibited higher sensitivity, particularly for fatigue, with sensitivities of 70.0%, 83.4%, 85.3%, 73.0%, and 69.0% for these five health symptoms. Particularly for predicting fatigue, sensitivity and AUC were significantly improved (70% vs. 8% and 11.1% for SVM, Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network (MLPNN), and RF, respectively, and 0.81 vs. 0.62 and 0.64, for SVM, MLPNN, and RF, respectively).
Conclusion: Machine learning methods, specifically SVM, hold promise in effectively managing health symptoms in individuals residing near or planning to settle in the vicinity of MPBS.
Open access paper: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/
Head-only exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal were performed in awake restrained mice. Each mouse was habituated to the exposure conditions by progressively increasing the time during which the mouse was head-fixed (from 15 min to 60 min over a week) in a red plastic tube (internal diameter: 32 mm) with the hook screwed to a small plastic post (see Figure 1A,B). Each day, a dipole antenna (SID3500, MVG, Plouzané, France) was positioned 5 mm from the animal’s head in a fixed/standardized position (Figure 1B) for one hour in the vicinity of the right temporal cortex.
The exposure system was similar to the one described in a previous study [35], replacing the frequency emitted by the radiofrequency generator to generate a 5G-3.5 GHz signal corresponding to 5G NR (release 15, Digital Standards SMBVB-K444; Rohde & Schwarz, Munich, Germany) with FDD duplexing, QPSK modulation, and a 100 MHz channel bandwidth. Briefly, a radiofrequency generator emitting a 5G-3.5 GHz electromagnetic field (SMBV100B, Rohde & Schwarz) was connected to a power amplifier (ZHL-4W-422+, Mini-Circuits, Brooklin, NY, USA), a circulator (Pasternack, PE83CR1005, Irvine, CA, USA), a bidirectional coupler (Mini-circuits, ZGBDC30-372HP+, Brooklin, NY, USA) and a four-way power divider (Mini-circuits ZB4PD-462W-N+, Brooklin, NY, USA), allowing potential simultaneous exposure of four animals. A power meter (E4417A and E9323A, EPM-P Series Power Meter, Agilent, Santa Clara, CA, USA) connected to the bidirectional coupler allowed continuous measurements and monitoring of incident and reflected powers within the setup.
Each exposed mouse was matched with a PSD-exposed mouse that was in head-fixed restrained conditions next to it (at about 30 cm, Figure 1A). An antenna was also placed 5 mm from the head of the PSD-exposed mouse, but this antenna was not connected to the 5G-3.5 GHz generator.
Conclusions and Limitations
Altogether, our results show that 1h of daily head exposure to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal over a six-week period does not alter emotional state and memory performance but triggers significant modification of expression in a limited set of genes, which can potentially affect glutamatergic synapses and mitochondrial activities. We acknowledge the limitations of our study. We cannot exclude that prolongations of the head exposures beyond 6 weeks could ultimately affect the emotional state or memory abilities of the exposed mice. While the classical OF tests used in our study did not show 5G-induced change in the animals’ behavior, we cannot rule out subtle alterations in emotional state that might be revealed by applying other behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze or emergence tests [55]. The experiments were carried out with male mice because of the impossibility of separately housing male and female mice during 5G exposure and behavioral testing. Further investigation will be required to evaluate whether female and male mice could be differentially affected by chronic exposure to 5G-3.5 GHz. In addition, our RNA-seq analyses were performed at a single time point, e.g., 24 h after the last exposure to the 5G-3.5 GHz signal. The kinetics and reversibility of the reported changes in gene expression are undetermined, and further studies are needed to assess whether and to what extent the changes in transcript levels translate into proteomic or functional alterations in mitochondria and in glutamatergic synapses. The 5G-triggered transcriptome modifications were observed in cortical areas where the average SAR levels range around 0.43 or 0.14 W/kg. These SAR levels may be considered in light of the European safety guidelines for human head exposures [56], which set the upper SAR limit to 2 W/kg. This value is higher than the corresponding SAR levels reached in the brain due to the energy absorption in the surrounding skull tissues. Recent dosimetric analyses of human exposures to downlink RF-EMF from base stations show intracortical SAR levels attributed to environmental 5G-3.5 GHz that are much lower than the values applied in our study, being less than 1 mW/kg [9]. Further investigations are needed to specify the levels of SAR reached in the human cerebral cortex when mobile phones emitting a 5G-3.5 GHz signal are held close to the ear of the mobile-phone user.
Abstract
Background: Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) have raised concerns due to their potential adverse effects on reproductive health. However, emerging evidence indicates that exposure to low-level RF-EMF may induce adaptive responses, rendering cells or organisms more resilient to subsequent stressors.
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Self-diagnosing electromagnetic hypersensitivity—A case study
Ashton D.
Self-diagnosing electromagnetic hypersensitivity—A case study. Front Public Health 2025; 13: 1535513
No abstract
Open access paper: https://www.frontiersin.org/
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A Novel
Method for Achieving Precision and Reproducibility in a 1.8 GHz
Radiofrequency Exposure System That Modulates Intracellular ROS as a
Function of Signal Amplitude in Human Cell Cultures
Dahon C, Aguida B, Lebon Y, Le Guen P, Dangremont A, Meyer O, Citerne
JM, Pooam M, Raad H, Thoradit T, Jourdan N, Bertagna F, Ahmad M. A Novel
Method for Achieving Precision and Reproducibility in a 1.8 GHz
Radiofrequency Exposure System That Modulates Intracellular ROS as a
Function of Signal Amplitude in Human Cell Cultures. Bioengineering
(Basel). 2025 Mar 4;12(3):257. doi: 10.3390/
Abstract
Radiofrequency fields in the 1-28 GHz range are ubiquitous in the modern
world, giving rise to numerous studies of potential health risks such
as cancer, neurological conditions, reproductive risks and
electromagnetic hypersensitivity. However, results are inconsistent due
to a lack of precision in exposure conditions and vastly differing
experimental models, whereas measured RF effects are often indirect and
occur over many hours or even days. Here, we present a simplified RF
exposure protocol providing a single 1.8 GHz carrier frequency to human
HEK293 cell monolayer cultures. A custom-built exposure box and antenna
maintained in a fully shielded anechoic chamber emits discrete RF
signals which can be precisely characterized and modelled. The chosen
amplitudes are non-thermal and fall within the range of modern
telecommunication devices. A critical feature of the protocol is that
cell cultures are exposed to only a single, short (15 min) RF exposure
period, followed by detection of immediate, rapid changes in gene
expression. In this way, we show that modulation of genes implicated in
oxidative stress and ROS signaling is among the earliest cellular
responses to RF exposure. Moreover, these genes respond in complex ways
to varying RF signal amplitudes consistent with a hormetic,
receptor-driven biological mechanism. We conclude that induction of mild
cellular stress and reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a primary response
of human cells to RF signals, and that these responses occur at RF
signal amplitudes within the range of normal telecommunications devices.
We suggest that this method may help provide a guideline for greater
reliability and reproducibility of research results between labs, and
thereby help resolve existing controversy on underlying mechanisms and
outcomes of RF exposure in the general population.
Excerpts
Concluding Remarks and Future Perspectives
We
here describe an experimental RF exposure device and protocol that
present fully characterized, defined RF signals to human cells in
culture. Their effects are consistent with a biological receptor-driven
mechanism whereby RF exposure modulates intracellular ROS and ROS
signaling pathways. This provides a testable hypothesis for the many and
varied effects of RF described in the literature.
These
cellular responses occur at RF signal amplitudes that are orders of
magnitude below those needed to achieve thermal effects, and lie within
the signal range of personal electronic devices and mobile phones.
Because this human cell response to RF is not linear as a function of
the RF signal amplitude, the relation between RF exposure conditions and
a physiological outcome is not readily deducible; indeed a robust gene
expression response may occur at one amplitude but be undetected at
another signal amplitude, or even undergo the opposite response entirely
(e.g., opposite expression of the same gene at different signal
amplitudes). It is therefore necessary to assess physiological response
to RF signal exposure at multiple signal amplitudes and wavelengths, and
preferably by using a readout assay that is rapid and direct. This may
help explain existing confusion and contradictions in the literature, as
well as stimulate future studies on the nature of the biological
reception mechanisms.
Finally, although RF
exposure from cell phones and telecommunications devices has not been
proven harmful in any way, there is a definite physiological response in
human beings to this signal range. Risk factors may therefore exist for
susceptibility to RF exposure, for instance in individuals with reduced
tolerance to oxidative stress and/or who are exposed to excessive
stressors in their daily life. These additive or synergistic effects may contribute to certain poorly defined syndromes such as electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) that have been linked to RF exposure in rare individuals in the past [29].
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2306-
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RF-EMF exposure assessment with add-on uplink exposure sensor in different microenvironments in seven European countries
Bladel HV, Stroobandt B, Veludo AF, Deprez K, Röösli M, Tognola G, Parazzini M, Thuróczy G, Polańska K, Politański P, Wiart J, Guxens M, Joseph W. RF-EMF exposure assessment with add-on uplink exposure sensor in different microenvironments in seven European countries. Environment International, Volume 197, 2025, doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2025.109368.
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction Several devices have been developed to assess exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF). Since the existing solutions to measure the personal exposure induced by emerging 5G New Radio (NR) are expensive, complex, and bulky, a new cost efficient and low-complexity sensor is developed, that aims to measure RF-EMF exposure in different scenarios of data transmission within different areas.
Methods With this novel sensor, activity-based microenvironmental surveys were conducted across seven European countries: Belgium, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The device is attached to a smartphone to quantify the auto-induced uplink (a-UL) transmission component of the total exposure for a broadband frequency range from 100 MHz to 6000 MHz and is thus denoted as add-on sensor. In-situ measurements were performed for three usage scenarios, namely non-user (i.e., environmental exposure), maximum downlink (max DL), and maximum uplink (max UL) scenarios, in a large city, a secondary city, and three rural villages a priori selected within each country.
Results Power levels were lowest in non-user scenarios (median: −2.64 dBm or 0.54mW), increasing by a factor of 5.00 dB in maximum downlink scenarios and by a factor of 14.15 dB in maximum uplink scenarios. In the maximum uplink scenarios, the highest median a-UL power of 18.68 dBm (= 73.79 mW) was recorded in The Netherlands, while the lowest median a-UL power of 4.77 dBm (= 3 mW) was observed in the UK. The analysis of the measured data showed a prominent trend of a 2.72 dB lower power in the cities compared to the villages. Further comparisons were made based on microenvironment groups, where the lowest a-UL power levels (median: 12.35 dBm) were measured in outdoor areas, with an increase of 1.78 dB and 1.91 dB in power was measured compared to public transport and public places, respectively.
Conclusion This study compares RF-EMF power levels between different countries, urbanization settings, and usage scenarios, which is important for future epidemiological studies.
Conclusions
An
add-on RF-EMF sensor was used in activity-based microenvironmental
surveys. The low-cost broadband add-on sensor was used to map RF-EMF
exposure in Belgium, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Switzerland, The
Netherlands and The UK in different microenvironments for three network
usage scenarios, i.e., non-user, maximum downlink and maximum uplink.
Median powers were used to determine any underlying general trends. When
examining the measured data, the most prominent trend is found with the
difference of 2.27 dB between the cities and villages and the different
city areas. Lowest powers are obtained during the non-user scenarios
and increase 5.00 dB and 14.15 dB for the maximum downlink and maximum
uplink scenarios, respectively.
Future
work entails the comparison of the measurement results obtained by this
add-on sensor with the results of other measurement devices and phone
applications, namely QualiPoc and the ExpoM – RF4, that were used
simultaneously to verify the discussed trends. Including the GPS data
creates the possibility of investigating present base stations on the
different routes and locations. Furthermore, the temporal behavior will
be investigated as this activity-based measurement campaign will be
repeated after two years, to investigate the influence of the 5G
deployment.
Open access paper:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/
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The Effect of Proximity Sensor & Grip Sensor Use on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in Smartphones
Aydin E. The Effect of Proximity Sensor & Grip Sensor Use on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) in Smartphones. Gazi University Journal of Science Part A: Engineering and Innovation. 2025, 12(1):292-306, 26.03.2025. doi: 10.54287/gujsa.1616086.
Abstract
Today, with the contribution of the new generation of communication technologies, many smart devices are produced. Almost every electronic device, including smart phones, smart watches, wireless headphones, tablets, emits some form of radiation. While most of this electromagnetic radiation is harmless, some of it can have potential health effects, depending on the frequency of use over long periods of time and in close usage. Specific Absorption Rate is a measure of how much human body tissue absorbs energy when the body is exposed to radiation. This measurement helps determine whether a device is safe for regular use. The SAR value may vary depending on the antenna and schematic design of the smartphone. To support high band requirements for 5G smartphones, more RF antennas required to be added in PCB design. When designing smartphones, designers also need to design proximity-grip sensors that accurately meet the industry's Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) requirements. In this study, the effects of proximity and grip sensors used in smartphones on LTE and 5G NR SAR values are investigated. During these measurements, a combination of Grip and Proximity Sensors were alternately turned on and off. Although the proximity sensor and grip sensor are not mainly used to optimize SAR values, it is foreseen that they may have indirect effects on SAR. In this context, SAR measurements were made in 3D environment for different frequencies. As a result of this study, it was observed that the grip-proximity sensors used in smartphones significantly reduce the SAR value and transfer less energy to the users in close range use. The effect of using the proximity sensor on the SAR rate was measured to be approximately 8%, while the effect of using the Grip Sensor was observed to be approximately 10%.
Abstract
Today, with the contribution of the new generation of communication technologies, many smart devices are produced. Almost every electronic device, including smart phones, smart watches, wireless headphones, tablets, emits some form of radiation. While most of this electromagnetic radiation is harmless, some of it can have potential health effects, depending on the frequency of use over long periods of time and in close usage. Specific Absorption Rate is a measure of how much human body tissue absorbs energy when the body is exposed to radiation. This measurement helps determine whether a device is safe for regular use. The SAR value may vary depending on the antenna and schematic design of the smartphone. To support high band requirements for 5G smartphones, more RF antennas required to be added in PCB design. When designing smartphones, designers also need to design proximity-grip sensors that accurately meet the industry's Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) requirements. In this study, the effects of proximity and grip sensors used in smartphones on LTE and 5G NR SAR values are investigated. During these measurements, a combination of Grip and Proximity Sensors were alternately turned on and off. Although the proximity sensor and grip sensor are not mainly used to optimize SAR values, it is foreseen that they may have indirect effects on SAR. In this context, SAR measurements were made in 3D environment for different frequencies. As a result of this study, it was observed that the grip-proximity sensors used in smartphones significantly reduce the SAR value and transfer less energy to the users in close range use. The effect of using the proximity sensor on the SAR rate was measured to be approximately 8%, while the effect of using the Grip Sensor was observed to be approximately 10%.
Excerpt
In this study, the effects of the use of the grip sensor and the proximity sensor on the SAR values are realized in 4 different scenarios for different communication technologies. Both grip sensors and proximity sensors contribute indirectly to reducing SAR in mobile phones. However, their effect is primarily through optimized power management. Specifically, proximity sensing can actively reduce transmission power when the phone is near the head of the user, directly reducing SAR. Grip sensors, while helpful in managing the behavior of the phone, have a less direct impact on SAR, but they can contribute to power adjustment based on the way the device is being held. As shown in Figure 7, we achieved best case with both sensors are in ON state, provides from 5% to 11% improvement on SAR values with different frequencies. It is important to use these sensors in future smartphones as a standard hardware component.
Open access paper: https://dergipark.org.tr/en/
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A Decision
Support System for Managing Health Symptoms of Living Near Mobile Phone
Base Stations
Abstract
Background: The rapid increase in the number of Mobile Phone Base Stations (MPBS) has raised global concerns about the potential adverse health effects of exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields (RF-EMF). The application of machine learning techniques can enable healthcare professionals and policymakers to proactively address concerns surrounding RF-EMF exposure near MPBS.
Objective: The current study aimed to investigate the potential of machine learning models for the prediction of health symptoms associated with RF-EMF exposure in individuals residing near MPBS.
Material and Methods: This analytical study utilized Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF) algorithms, incorporating 11 predictors related to participants’ living conditions. A total of 699 adults participated in the study, and model performance was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and the Area Under Curve (AUC).
Results: The SVM-based model demonstrated strong performance, with accuracies of 85.3%, 82%, 84%, 82.4%, and 65.1% for headache, sleep disturbance, dizziness, vertigo, and fatigue, respectively. The corresponding AUC values were 0.99, 0.98, 0.920, 0.89, and 0.81. Compared to the RF model and a previously developed model, the SVM-based model exhibited higher sensitivity, particularly for fatigue, with sensitivities of 70.0%, 83.4%, 85.3%, 73.0%, and 69.0% for these five health symptoms. Particularly for predicting fatigue, sensitivity and AUC were significantly improved (70% vs. 8% and 11.1% for SVM, Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network (MLPNN), and RF, respectively, and 0.81 vs. 0.62 and 0.64, for SVM, MLPNN, and RF, respectively).
Conclusion: Machine learning methods, specifically SVM, hold promise in effectively managing health symptoms in individuals residing near or planning to settle in the vicinity of MPBS.
Excerpts
"Figure 1 highlights three variables as the most important predictors of health symptoms: the distance from the mobile base station, the age of the participant, and the duration of residence in the area."
"From a broader standpoint, our findings are in line with studies that have reported that while there is an increasing concern regarding the potential negative health consequences of RF-EMF exposures from mobile phone base stations, the health complaints of individuals living near these base stations cannot be fully explained by these concerns alone [31]. No- tably, previous large population-based studies have shown that residents who were concerned about or attributed detrimental biological effects of RF-EMF generated by mobile phone base stations, as well as those living closer to the base station (e.g., <500 m), had more health complaints compared to others [31]. Furthermore, our results support reports showing the presence of sleep disturbances, headaches, dizziness, irritability, concentration difficulties, and hypertension in the majority of people residing near mobile phone base stations [32]. Additionally, the obtained results align with reports indicating a higher risk of developing neuropsychiatric problems in individuals living in the vicinity of mobile phone base stations. Headache, memory changes, dizziness, tremors, depressive symptoms, and sleep disturbance have been reported to be significantly higher in individuals living around mobile phone base stations [33]."
Open access paper: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/
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Brain Disease-Modifying Effects of
Radiofrequency as a Non-Contact Neuronal Stimulation Technology (Review)
Sun S, Bok J, Jang Y, Seo H. Brain Disease-Modifying Effects of
Radiofrequency as a Non-Contact Neuronal Stimulation Technology. Int J
Mol Sci. 2025 Mar 4;26(5):2268. doi: 10.3390/ijms26052268.
Abstract
Non-invasive, non-contact, and painless methods of electrical
stimulation to enhance neural function have been widely studied in
recent years, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases
such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias, which cause
cognitive decline and other neurological symptoms. Radiofrequency (RF),
which is a rate of oscillation in the range of 3 kHz to 300 GHz (3 THz),
has been suggested as one potential non-contact neuronal stimulation
(NCNS) technique for improving brain function. A new type of electrical
stimulation uses a radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF). RF
exposure has been shown to modulate neural stimulation and influence
various brain activities in in vitro and in vivo models. Recent studies
have explored the effects of RF-EMF on human physiology, particularly in
areas such as brain activity, cognition, and sleep behavior. In this
review, we summarize recent findings about the effects of non-contact
stimulations in in vitro studies, in vivo animal models, and human
clinical cases.
Conclusions
In
conclusion, RF exposure has the potential to affect neural stimulation
and influence various brain activities in in vitro and in vivo models.
The in vitro/in vivo effects of RF-EMF exposure are summarized in Figure 1.
RF-EMF exposure therapy might improve cognitive performance in
optimized conditions. Cognitive dysfunction caused by increased reactive
oxygen species and oxidative stress may be improved after RF-EMF
exposure through cellular mechanisms such as mitochondrial restoration,
gene expression regulation, and cytoskeletal trafficking, etc. Recent
studies have explored the influence of EMF on human physiology,
particularly brain activity, cognition, sleep, behavior, and sensory
functions. Research data vary depending on the RF stimulation
conditions, highlighting the need for more clinical trials to clarify
its potential effects. However, research is still very limited, and
conflicting results can arise depending on the exposure conditions and
individual variations. Moreover, although extensive research has been
conducted to assess the effects of RF exposure, current data remain
insufficient to understand its biological impact. Therefore, careful
consideration is needed before clinically applying RF exposure.
Additionally, further investigation into the effects of RF and their
mechanisms is essential, as many researchers strive to establish
reliable safety and efficacy data.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-
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Repeated
Head Exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz Signal Do Not Alter Behavior but Modify
Intracortical Gene Expression in Adult Male Mice
Lameth J, Royer J, Martin A, Marie C,
Arnaud-Cormos D, Lévêque P, Poirier R, Edeline JM, Mallat M. Repeated
Head Exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz Signal Do Not Alter Behavior but Modify
Intracortical Gene Expression in Adult Male Mice. Int J Mol Sci. 2025
Mar 10;26(6):2459. doi: 10.3390/ijms26062459. PMID: 40141104; PMCID:
PMC11941837.
Abstract
The fifth generation (5G) of mobile communications promotes human
exposure to electromagnetic fields exploiting the 3.5 GHz frequency
band. We analyzed behaviors, cognitive functions, and gene expression in
mice submitted to asymmetrical head exposure to a 5G-modulated 3.5 GHz
signal. The exposures were applied for 1 h daily, 5 days per week over a
six-week period, at a specific absorption rate (SAR) averaging 0.19
W/kg over the brain. Locomotor activities in an open field, object
location, and object recognition memories were assessed repeatedly after
four weeks of exposure and did not reveal any significant effect on the
locomotion/exploration, anxiety level, or memory processes. mRNA
profiling was performed at the end of the exposure period in two
symmetrical areas of the right and left cerebral cortex, in which the
SAR values were 0.43 and 0.14 W/kg, respectively. We found significant
changes in the expression of less than 1% of the expressed genes, with
over-representations of genes related to glutamatergic synapses. The
right cortical area differed from the left one by an over-representation
of responsive genes encoded by the mitochondrial genome. Our data show
that repeated head exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal can trigger mild
transcriptome alterations without changes in memory capacities or
emotional state.
Head-only exposures to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal were performed in awake restrained mice. Each mouse was habituated to the exposure conditions by progressively increasing the time during which the mouse was head-fixed (from 15 min to 60 min over a week) in a red plastic tube (internal diameter: 32 mm) with the hook screwed to a small plastic post (see Figure 1A,B). Each day, a dipole antenna (SID3500, MVG, Plouzané, France) was positioned 5 mm from the animal’s head in a fixed/standardized position (Figure 1B) for one hour in the vicinity of the right temporal cortex.
The exposure system was similar to the one described in a previous study [35], replacing the frequency emitted by the radiofrequency generator to generate a 5G-3.5 GHz signal corresponding to 5G NR (release 15, Digital Standards SMBVB-K444; Rohde & Schwarz, Munich, Germany) with FDD duplexing, QPSK modulation, and a 100 MHz channel bandwidth. Briefly, a radiofrequency generator emitting a 5G-3.5 GHz electromagnetic field (SMBV100B, Rohde & Schwarz) was connected to a power amplifier (ZHL-4W-422+, Mini-Circuits, Brooklin, NY, USA), a circulator (Pasternack, PE83CR1005, Irvine, CA, USA), a bidirectional coupler (Mini-circuits, ZGBDC30-372HP+, Brooklin, NY, USA) and a four-way power divider (Mini-circuits ZB4PD-462W-N+, Brooklin, NY, USA), allowing potential simultaneous exposure of four animals. A power meter (E4417A and E9323A, EPM-P Series Power Meter, Agilent, Santa Clara, CA, USA) connected to the bidirectional coupler allowed continuous measurements and monitoring of incident and reflected powers within the setup.
Each exposed mouse was matched with a PSD-exposed mouse that was in head-fixed restrained conditions next to it (at about 30 cm, Figure 1A). An antenna was also placed 5 mm from the head of the PSD-exposed mouse, but this antenna was not connected to the 5G-3.5 GHz generator.
Conclusions and Limitations
Altogether, our results show that 1h of daily head exposure to a 5G-3.5 GHz signal over a six-week period does not alter emotional state and memory performance but triggers significant modification of expression in a limited set of genes, which can potentially affect glutamatergic synapses and mitochondrial activities. We acknowledge the limitations of our study. We cannot exclude that prolongations of the head exposures beyond 6 weeks could ultimately affect the emotional state or memory abilities of the exposed mice. While the classical OF tests used in our study did not show 5G-induced change in the animals’ behavior, we cannot rule out subtle alterations in emotional state that might be revealed by applying other behavioral tests, such as the elevated plus maze or emergence tests [55]. The experiments were carried out with male mice because of the impossibility of separately housing male and female mice during 5G exposure and behavioral testing. Further investigation will be required to evaluate whether female and male mice could be differentially affected by chronic exposure to 5G-3.5 GHz. In addition, our RNA-seq analyses were performed at a single time point, e.g., 24 h after the last exposure to the 5G-3.5 GHz signal. The kinetics and reversibility of the reported changes in gene expression are undetermined, and further studies are needed to assess whether and to what extent the changes in transcript levels translate into proteomic or functional alterations in mitochondria and in glutamatergic synapses. The 5G-triggered transcriptome modifications were observed in cortical areas where the average SAR levels range around 0.43 or 0.14 W/kg. These SAR levels may be considered in light of the European safety guidelines for human head exposures [56], which set the upper SAR limit to 2 W/kg. This value is higher than the corresponding SAR levels reached in the brain due to the energy absorption in the surrounding skull tissues. Recent dosimetric analyses of human exposures to downlink RF-EMF from base stations show intracortical SAR levels attributed to environmental 5G-3.5 GHz that are much lower than the values applied in our study, being less than 1 mW/kg [9]. Further investigations are needed to specify the levels of SAR reached in the human cerebral cortex when mobile phones emitting a 5G-3.5 GHz signal are held close to the ear of the mobile-phone user.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-
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5G
Radiofrequency Exposure Reduces PRDM16 and C/EBP β mRNA
Expression, Two Key Biomarkers for Brown Adipogenesis
Seewooruttun C, Bouguila B, Corona A,
Delanaud S, Bodin R, Bach V, Desailloud R, Pelletier A. 5G
Radiofrequency Exposure Reduces PRDM16 and C/EBP β mRNA
Expression, Two Key Biomarkers for Brown Adipogenesis. Int J Mol Sci.
2025 Mar 20;26(6):2792. doi: 10.3390/ijms26062792.
Abstract
The widespread use of wireless technologies has raised public health
concerns about the biological effects of radiofrequency (RF) exposure.
Children have a higher specific absorption rate (SAR) of radiation
energy compared to adults. Furthermore, brown adipose tissue (BAT) is
more prevalent in infants and tends to decrease with age. Previous
animal studies demonstrated a cold sensation in rats exposed to 900 MHz
(second generation, 2G). UCP1-dependent thermogenesis and BAT
hyperplasia are two fundamental adaptive mechanisms initiated in
response to cold. This study investigated the impact of short-term
exposure to 2G and fifth generation (5G) on key thermogenic and
adipogenic markers related to these mechanisms while considering age and
exposure duration. Juvenile and young adult Wistar rats were randomized
into three subgroups: a 5G group (3.5 GHz), 2G group (900 MHz), and a
control group (SHAM). They were exposed to their respective
continuous-wave RF signals for 1 or 2 weeks at an intensity of 1.5 V/m,
with two exposure sessions of 1 h per day. After the exposure period, a
RT-qPCR was carried out to evaluate the genetic markers involved in BAT
thermogenesis and adipogenesis. Two adipogenic biomarkers were affected;
a fold change reduction of 49% and 32% was detected for PRDM16 (p = 0.016) and C/EBP β (p
= 0.0002), respectively, after 5G exposure, regardless of age and
exposure duration. No significant RF effect was found on UCP1-dependent
thermogenesis at a transcriptional level. These findings suggest that
exposure to a 5G radiofrequency may partially disrupt brown adipocyte
differentiation and thermogenic function by downregulating PRDM16 and C/EBP β, possibly leading to higher cold sensitivity.
RF Exposure System
The 5G group was exposed to a continuous-wave RF signal set at 3.5 GHz and the 2G group to one at 900 MHz, with an exposure period of one or two weeks. The two one-hour RF exposure sessions per day were applied at an intensity of 1.5 V/m. These sessions were scheduled randomly; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. According to the French national frequency agency (ANFR), this intensity level reflects our current environmental exposure when using wireless network technologies and mobile phones [27].
A generator (AnaPico ASPIN4010—9 kHz–4000 MHz, Glattbrugg, Switzerland), located outside the climatic chambers, was set to produce a 3.5 GHz band signal for 5G exposure. It was coupled with an amplifier RFPA (RF26003800-4x0.5W) connected to one antenna (antenna Laird multi-band CFS60383) inside the chambers. For 2G exposure, the same generator was set to 900 MHz, paired with another amplifier RFPA (RFS7002500-6x0.5) capable of emitting this RF band, and connected to two antennas (Kathrein 800-10465, Rosenheim, Germany).
The antennas were aligned horizontally in the climatic chamber, 80 cm above the exposed rats’ boxes, thus at a height larger than 2.4λ and 9λ, at 900 MHz and 3.5 GHz, respectively, with λ representing the wavelength. The position of the antennas was adjusted to minimize the variation in the field amplitude within each cage and between cages.
Using an electric field probe EP600 (Narda Safety Test Solutions, Cisano sul Neva, Italy), we measured the intensity level in five different positions in each cage. An electric field of 1.6 ± 0.4 V/m was measured under 5G exposure and 1.6 ± 0.5 V/m under 2G exposure. These data were recorded on WinEP600 (Narda Safety Test Solutions, Cisano sul Neva, Italy). The transmitting device did not generate a static magnetic field. For the non-exposed groups (controls), the antennas in the adjacent climatic chamber remained unconnected to the generator.
Using these data, the mean intensity of the RF signal per cage was used to estimate the mean whole-body SAR during the experiment. The mean whole-body SAR was calculated to be 0.07 mW/kg for the 5G exposure and 0.24 mW/kg for the 2G exposure, following the method described by Mai et al. [4].
A generator (AnaPico ASPIN4010—9 kHz–4000 MHz, Glattbrugg, Switzerland), located outside the climatic chambers, was set to produce a 3.5 GHz band signal for 5G exposure. It was coupled with an amplifier RFPA (RF26003800-4x0.5W) connected to one antenna (antenna Laird multi-band CFS60383) inside the chambers. For 2G exposure, the same generator was set to 900 MHz, paired with another amplifier RFPA (RFS7002500-6x0.5) capable of emitting this RF band, and connected to two antennas (Kathrein 800-10465, Rosenheim, Germany).
The antennas were aligned horizontally in the climatic chamber, 80 cm above the exposed rats’ boxes, thus at a height larger than 2.4λ and 9λ, at 900 MHz and 3.5 GHz, respectively, with λ representing the wavelength. The position of the antennas was adjusted to minimize the variation in the field amplitude within each cage and between cages.
Using an electric field probe EP600 (Narda Safety Test Solutions, Cisano sul Neva, Italy), we measured the intensity level in five different positions in each cage. An electric field of 1.6 ± 0.4 V/m was measured under 5G exposure and 1.6 ± 0.5 V/m under 2G exposure. These data were recorded on WinEP600 (Narda Safety Test Solutions, Cisano sul Neva, Italy). The transmitting device did not generate a static magnetic field. For the non-exposed groups (controls), the antennas in the adjacent climatic chamber remained unconnected to the generator.
Using these data, the mean intensity of the RF signal per cage was used to estimate the mean whole-body SAR during the experiment. The mean whole-body SAR was calculated to be 0.07 mW/kg for the 5G exposure and 0.24 mW/kg for the 2G exposure, following the method described by Mai et al. [4].
Conclusions
Our research showed a fold change decrease of 49% for PRDM16 and 32% for C/EBP β in terms of their mRNA levels after exposure to 5G. As mentioned previously, these adipogenic markers are important in the differentiation and maturation of brown adipocytes from BAT precursors, as well as the maintenance of their thermogenic capacity. In contrast, UCP1-dependent thermogenesis was not impacted by RF exposure at the transcriptional level. Most of the studied thermogenic markers showed no age-related or exposure duration-related effects associated with RF exposure, except for PPAR α and ADRβ3. This study provides new insights into the potential impact of 5G exposure on brown adipogenesis. The disrupted differentiation and thermogenic capacity of brown adipocytes through PRDM16 and C/EBP β downregulation may affect the development and characteristics of BAT, potentially leading to increased cold sensitivity after RF exposure. These findings could partially explain the physiological events related to cold stress seen after RF exposures. However, it is important to investigate the peripheral tail temperature in rats in order to confirm our hypothesis and explain the observed biological effects. Furthermore, it may provide valuable insights to help us better understand the impact of low-intensity 2G and 5G RF signals on vasomotor responses. Most studies on low-level radiofrequency exposure have predominantly focused on “non-thermal” biological effects, such as oxidative stress, genetic instability, and reproductive health, although these findings remain heterogeneous [77]. The impact of low-intensity RFs on thermoregulation remains largely an uncharted aspect of environmental health and safety. This research addresses this gap and can help to raise public awareness about the potential health risks posed by radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation, particularly 5G, with the rise in wireless technologies.
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-
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The CB1R of mPFC is involved in
anxiety-like behavior induced by 0.8/2.65 GHz dual-frequency
electromagnetic radiation
Sun B, Xue T, Gao AN, Wang XY, Wu S, Liu XM,
Zhang LH, Li MH, Zou DF, Gao Y, Wang CZ. The CB1R of mPFC is involved in
anxiety-like behavior induced by 0.8/2.65 GHz dual-frequency
electromagnetic radiation. Front Mol Neurosci. 2025 Mar 12;18:1534324.
doi: 10.3389/fnmol.2025.1534324.
Abstract
As mobile phones and communication base stations become more widespread,
concerns have arisen regarding the potential risks of environmental
exposure to multi-frequency electromagnetic radiation (EMR) and its
effects on mental health. To address these concerns, our study
established a dual-frequency EMR mouse model at 0.8/2.65 GHz to explore
potential molecular mechanisms and intervention targets. Our results
revealed that exposure to this dual-frequency EMR significantly induced
anxiety-like behavior in mice. Molecular experiments further showed a
significant decrease in cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) levels in the
medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of the mice, along with a notable
reduction in the endogenous cannabinoids 2-arachidonoylglycerol and
anandamide. This led to a downregulation of the entire endocannabinoid
system (ECS). Additional confirmation was obtained by overexpressing and
knocking down CB1R in the mPFC. We found that increasing mPFC CB1R
levels could effectively reduce anxiety-like behavior, while decreasing
mPFC CB1R levels exacerbated it. Furthermore, we found dual-frequency
EMR induced the change of ECS in the basolateral amygdala (BLA).
Notably, female mice exhibited similar behavioral phenotypes and
molecular mechanisms in response to dual-frequency EMR. In summary, our
study demonstrates that anxiety induced by dual-frequency EMR is closely
linked to the function of the ECS in the mPFC and BLA, and that CB1R
expression in the mPFC plays a significant role in modulating emotional
behavior in mice.
EMR exposure equipment
The electromagnetic reverberation chamber (RC) utilized in this experiment was developed by Wu Tongning's team at the Department of Environment and Security, China Institute of Information and Communication Technology (Li et al., 2016). Constructed with reinforced concrete, the RC is a large shielded enclosure featuring highly conductive reflective walls and multiple mechanical stirrers. The stirrers' rotation alters the chamber's boundary conditions, creating a statistically uniform, isotropic, and randomly polarized electromagnetic environment. Key components of the RC include signal generators, power amplifiers, and shielding structures. The chamber can produce electromagnetic waves within a frequency range of 0 to 3 GHz. In this study, 0.8 and 2.65 GHz frequencies were applied at a dose of 4 W/kg. The electric field intensity was calculated based on the mice's average body weight, with specific experimental parameters detailed in Table 1.
Conclusions
In summary, this study demonstrates that anxiety-like behavior induced
by dual-frequency EMR is closely associated with the ECS in the mPFC and
BLA. Moreover, overexpression of CB1R in the mPFC significantly
alleviates anxiety-like behavior in mice, while knockdown of CB1R in the
mPFC exacerbates negative emotional responses (Figure 7).
This research offers new insights into potential strategies for the
treatment or prevention of the effects of dual-frequency EMR.
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Mitigating
Heat-Induced Sperm Damage and Testicular Tissue Abnormalities: The
Protective Role of Radiofrequency Radiation from Wi-Fi Routers in Rodent
Models
Mahmoudi R, Karbalay-Doust S, Masoudi E, Jafari-Barmak M, Ghanbri A, Nikseresht M, Mortazavi SMJ, Mortazavi SA. (2024). Mitigating Heat-Induced Sperm Damage and Testicular Tissue Abnormalities: The Protective Role of Radiofrequency Radiation from Wi-Fi Routers in Rodent Models. Journal of Biomedical Physics and Engineering, (), -. doi: 10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.2405-1759
Background: Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) have raised concerns due to their potential adverse effects on reproductive health. However, emerging evidence indicates that exposure to low-level RF-EMF may induce adaptive responses, rendering cells or organisms more resilient to subsequent stressors.
Objective: To investigate whether exposure to 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi radiation could mitigate heat-induced damage in the reproductive system of male rats.
Material and Methods: In this factorial experimental study, 32 adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, RF-EMF alone, heat stress alone, and RF-EMF combined with heat stress. Rats in the RF-EMF group were exposed to RF-EMF for 2 hours daily over 52 days, while those in the heat group experienced 10 minutes of heat stress per day over the same period. The ‘RF-EMF + heat’ group received both RF-EMF and heat exposure. After 52 days, the testes and sperm parameters were assessed.
Results: Animals exposed to ‘RF-EMF + heat’ combined with heat showed significant improvements in testis volume, tubular epithelium, interstitium, cell counts, sperm quality, and Leydig cells compared to those exposed to heat alone (P<0.05).
Conclusion: As far as we know, this is the first study to explore the potential protective effects of RF-EMF exposure against heat-induced structural abnormalities in the testes of male rats. Our findings suggest that RF-EMF exposure may mitigate heat-induced damage, possibly through the induction of adaptive responses. These results have implications for various fields, including reproductive biology, environmental health, and occupational safety, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Excerpts
The Wi-Fi router operated on power level of 1W and the Specific Absorption Rate at the distance of 30 cm in animals’ head level, as reported in another publication by our team, was 0.091 W/kg [11]
The results suggest that RF-EMF exposure may lead to alterations in testicular weight, volume, and sperm parameters, consistent with previous research highlighting the potential negative effects on male reproductive health.
The observed decline in sperm parameters and germinal cell count in response to RF-EMF exposure and heat align with existing literature, indicating a potential link between environmental factors and male fertility. The increase in Leydig cells following exposure to heat underscores the intricate cellular responses to thermal stress.
Furthermore, the concept of adaptive response (AR) emerges as a potential mechanism through which cells may develop resistance to subsequent exposures to damaging agents. The induction of AR by RF-EMF and heat, as suggested by the study results, presents a fascinating avenue for further exploration into the protective mechanisms activated in response to low-level injuries.
Furthermore, the concept of adaptive response (AR) emerges as a potential mechanism through which cells may develop resistance to subsequent exposures to damaging agents. The induction of AR by RF-EMF and heat, as suggested by the study results, presents a fascinating avenue for further exploration into the protective mechanisms activated in response to low-level injuries.
Open access paper: https://jbpe.sums.ac.ir/
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Histomorphometry and Sperm Quality in Male Rats Exposed to 2.45 GHz
Wi-Fi
Vijay S, Ibrahim SF, Osman K, Zulkefli AF,
Mat Ros MF, Jamaludin N, Syed Taha SMA, Hairulazam A, Jaffar FHF.
Histomorphometry and Sperm Quality in Male Rats Exposed to 2.45 GHz
Wi-Fi. Reproduction. 2025 Apr 1:REP-25-0048. doi: 10.1530/REP-25-0048.
Abstract
Numerous studies have documented the effect of 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi exposure on
the testes and sperm quality. Nevertheless, detailed histological
alterations of other male reproductive organs are underexplored.
Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate detailed histological
alterations of the testes, epididymis, seminal vesicle, coagulating
organ, and sperms parameters following 2.45GHz Wi-Fi exposure. Eighteen
adult male Sprague Dawley rats (N=18) were equally divided into three
groups (n=6): Control, 4-hour, and 24-hour groups. The groups were
exposed to an active router daily for 4 or 24 hours, respectively. The
Control group was sham-exposed using an inactive router. The exposure
lasted for eight weeks at a 20cm distance, with a power density of
0.141W/m² and a specific absorption rate (SAR) of 0.41W/Kg. Histological
findings revealed vacuolation in the testes and the corpus epididymis
of the 4-hour and 24-hour groups. The seminal vesicle in both exposed
groups exhibited multifocal atypical hyperplasia. Besides, the
seminiferous tubule diameter decreased gradually in both exposed groups,
with a substantial decrease in the 24-hour group. The spermatogenesis
index in 4-hour and 24-hour groups also reduced significantly. The
latter result was reflected in the sperm concentration, where both
groups showed a significant reduction compared to the Control group.
Sperm motility also decreased significantly in the 4-hour groups.
Interestingly, there was a substantial increase in sperm viability in
the 24-hour group. These findings indicate that 2.45 GHz Wi-Fi exposure
causes changes in the histology and histomorphometry measurement and
impairs important sperm parameters. This highlights the consequences
following Wi-Fi exposure on male reproductive health.
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The Frequency of a Magnetic Field Determines the Behavior of Tumor and
Non-Tumor Nerve Cell Models
López de Mingo I, Rivera González MX, Ramos Gómez M, Maestú Unturbe C.
The Frequency of a Magnetic Field Determines the Behavior of Tumor and
Non-Tumor Nerve Cell Models. Int J Mol Sci. 2025 Feb 26;26(5):2032. doi:
10.3390/ijms26052032.
Abstract
The involvement of magnetic fields in basic cellular processes has been
studied for years. Most studies focus their results on a single
frequency and intensity. Intensity has long been the central parameter
in hypotheses of interaction between cells and magnetic fields; however,
frequency has always played a secondary role. The main objective of
this study was to obtain a specific frequency that allows a reduction in
the viability and proliferation of glioblastoma (CT2A) and
neuroblastoma (N2A) cell models. These were compared with an astrocyte
cell model (C8D1A) (nontumor) to determine whether there is a specific
frequency of response for each of the cell lines used. The CT2A, C8D1A,
and N2A cell lines were exposed to a magnetic field of 100 µT and a
variable frequency range between 20 and 100 Hz for 24, 48 and 72 h. The
results fit a biological window model in which the viability and
proliferation of N2A and CT2A cells decrease statistically significantly
in a 50 Hz center of value window. In addition, the non-tumor cell
model showed different behavior from tumor cell models depending on the
applied frequency. These results are promising in the use of magnetic
fields for therapeutic purposes.
Conclusions
It
has been demonstrated that there are certain frequencies that can
reduce the proliferation and viability of tumor cell models of nervous
tissue. Exposure of cell models to different magnetic field frequency
values produces a cellular response in viability and proliferation that
responds to a “biological window” model centered at 50 Hz for the tumor
models used. This window is cell-type specific. Astrocytes, the
non-tumor cell line of comparison, show an increase in viability at 20
and 40 Hz. This allows us to consider the use of specific ’bioactive’
frequencies in therapeutic applications for different pathologies such
as tumor development (with the consequent decrease in viability and
proliferation) or neurodegenerative diseases (with the increase in
viability and proliferation of the astrocytic network).
Open access paper: https://www.mdpi.com/1422-
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20 kHz Magnetic Field Emission of Induction Cooking Heaters
Kamata K, Haga A. 20kHz Magnetic Field Emission of Induction Cooking Heaters. EMC Europe 2004, International Symposium on Electromagnetic Compatibility, Eindhoven, The Netherlands, 2004, pp. 1-6, doi: 10.23919/EMC.2004.10805977.
Abstract
The distribution of the magnetic field leakage produced by an induction cooking heater (IH) is measured and analyzed using the finite element method. First, the dependence of the amplitude of leaked magnetic fields on the distance from the IH was measured with two S-type pans, one S-type pan, and one L-type pan and compared with the ICNIRP limit of general public exposure to 20 kHz magnetic fields. Next, the validity of the analysis is confirmed by comparing with measurement. The effects of pan size, etc. on magnetic field leakage are analyzed. The analysis makes clear the reason why the measured leaked magnetic fields from the IH are different with various types of pans. The data presented in this paper should be useful in understanding the levels of magnetic field produced by IHs, and also in estimating magnetic field exposure in homes and workplaces.
Conclusion
Four different lHs made by four manufacturers were surveyed for their magnetic field characteristics. The magnetic field levels of IH appliances as a function of distance were presented in graphical form. All sets of measurements were carried out at the fundamental frequency of 20kHz and narrow-band rms levels of magnetic flux densities expressed in μT. The magnetic field densities generated by the THs of manufacturers A, B, C and D are different. The maximum magnetic field measurement was 16 μT in the case of manufacturer A with two S-type pans at X = Z= 0, Y= -20 cm.
The analysis showed that the basic model (two S- type pans) had the most magnetic leakage followed by one S-type pan, and two L-type pans. The analysis result was in agreement with the measurement results.
The analysis showed that the basic model (two S- type pans) had the most magnetic leakage followed by one S-type pan, and two L-type pans. The analysis result was in agreement with the measurement results.
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Extremely low frequency
magnetic field distracts zebrafish from a visual cognitive task
Ziegenbalg L, Güntürkün O, Winklhofer M. Extremely low frequency
magnetic field distracts zebrafish from a visual cognitive task. Sci
Rep. 2025 Mar 12;15(1):8589. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-90194-x.
Abstract
Electromagnetic fields emitted from overhead power lines and subsea
cables are widely regarded to be a disruptive factor for animals using
the natural magnetic field as orientation cue for guiding their directed
movements. However, it is not known if anthropogenic electromagnetic
fields also have the potential to disturb animals attending to
information from other sensory modalities. To find out, we trained adult
zebrafish (Danio rerio) individually to perform avoidance
behavior in response to a visual signal (green LED light spot), which in
the exposure group was presented simultaneously with a sinusoidally
changing magnetic field (0.3 Hz, group A: 0.015 mT, group B: 0.06 mT).
Despite the salience of the visual signal, which was both sufficient and
necessary to elicit conditioned avoidance responses, the 0.06 mT
magnetic condition had a negative impact on learning performance and
response behavior. This suggests that extremely low frequency technical
magnetic fields of Earth strength amplitude can act as cross-modal
distractor that diverts the attention of animals away from
environmentally relevant cues based on nonmagnetic sensory modalities.
Our research highlights the need to study the role of anthropogenic
magnetic fields as sensory pollutant beyond the scope of magnetic
orientation behavior.
Open access paper: https://www.nature.com/
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Learned magnetic map cues and two mechanisms of
magnetoreception in turtles
Goforth KM, Lohmann CMF, Gavin A, Henning R, Harvey A, Hinton TL, Lim
DS, Lohmann KJ. Learned magnetic map cues and two mechanisms of
magnetoreception in turtles. Nature. 2025 Feb;638(8052):1015-1022. doi:
10.1038/s41586-024-08554-y.
Abstract
Growing evidence indicates that migratory animals exploit the magnetic field of the Earth for navigation, both as a compass to determine direction and as a map to determine geographical position1. It has long been proposed that, to navigate using a magnetic map, animals must learn the magnetic coordinates of the destination2,3, yet the pivotal hypothesis that animals can learn magnetic signatures of geographical areas has, to our knowledge, yet to be tested. Here we report that an iconic navigating species, the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), can learn such information. When fed repeatedly in magnetic fields replicating those that exist in particular oceanic locations, juvenile turtles learned to distinguish magnetic fields in which they encountered food from magnetic fields that exist elsewhere, an ability that might underlie foraging site fidelity. Conditioned responses in this new magnetic map assay were unaffected by radiofrequency oscillating magnetic fields, a treatment expected to disrupt radical-pair-based chemical magnetoreception4-6, suggesting that the magnetic map sense of the turtle does not rely on this mechanism. By contrast, orientation behaviour that required use of the magnetic compass was disrupted by radiofrequency oscillating magnetic fields. The findings provide evidence that two different mechanisms of magnetoreception underlie the magnetic map and magnetic compass in sea turtles.
Abstract
Growing evidence indicates that migratory animals exploit the magnetic field of the Earth for navigation, both as a compass to determine direction and as a map to determine geographical position1. It has long been proposed that, to navigate using a magnetic map, animals must learn the magnetic coordinates of the destination2,3, yet the pivotal hypothesis that animals can learn magnetic signatures of geographical areas has, to our knowledge, yet to be tested. Here we report that an iconic navigating species, the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), can learn such information. When fed repeatedly in magnetic fields replicating those that exist in particular oceanic locations, juvenile turtles learned to distinguish magnetic fields in which they encountered food from magnetic fields that exist elsewhere, an ability that might underlie foraging site fidelity. Conditioned responses in this new magnetic map assay were unaffected by radiofrequency oscillating magnetic fields, a treatment expected to disrupt radical-pair-based chemical magnetoreception4-6, suggesting that the magnetic map sense of the turtle does not rely on this mechanism. By contrast, orientation behaviour that required use of the magnetic compass was disrupted by radiofrequency oscillating magnetic fields. The findings provide evidence that two different mechanisms of magnetoreception underlie the magnetic map and magnetic compass in sea turtles.
Open access paper: https://www.nature.com/
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Effects of moderate static magnetic fields on voltage-gated potassium
ion channels in sympathetic neuron-like PC12 cells
Kaneda E, Kawai T, Okamura Y, Miyagawa S.
Effects of moderate static magnetic fields on voltage-gated potassium
ion channels in sympathetic neuron-like PC12 cells. Physiol Rep. 2025
Mar;13(6):e70236. doi: 10.14814/phy2.70236.
Abstract
While exposure of moderate static magnetic fields (SMF) can alter
neuronal excitability, the effects on sympathetic neurons remain
underexplored. This study investigates the effects of moderate SMF on Kv
channels in the plasma membrane of sympathetic neuron-like PC12 cells.
The current density of Kv channels was significantly lower in the 18-h
magnet-exposed group, with effects persisting even after the magnet was
removed before patch-clamp measurements. The current density of outward
current in the presence of TEA was not different between the two groups,
indicating that magnetic field affects TEA-sensitive Kv channels. To
further explore these changes, RNA sequencing was performed on samples
from both the Sham and 18-h magnet-exposed groups, identifying 37
moderate SMF-sensitive genes. Changes in mRNA expression levels and KEGG
analysis suggested that pathways involved in the inhibition of neuronal
excitability, such as GABAB receptor activation and Kir3 channel
opening, may be more likely to be activated. In conclusion, moderate SMF
is strongly associated with reduced current density in PC12 cells,
particularly affecting Kv channels. The present study provides
fundamental information on the influence of long-term SMF exposure on
the excitability of sympathetic neurons.
Open access paper: https://physoc.onlinelibrary.
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Enhancement Effect of Static Magnetic Field on Bactericidal
Activity
Zhang M, Song Y, Wang J, Shi X, Chen Q, Ding R, Mou J, Fang H, Zhou Y,
Chen R. Enhancement Effect of Static Magnetic Field on Bactericidal
Activity. Small. 2025 Mar 22:e2412334. doi: 10.1002/smll.202412334.
Abstract
The biological effects of magnetic fields are pervasive in
microorganisms, with significant attention given to alternating magnetic
fields (AMFs). However, AMFs induce electrical and magnetothermal
effects, which complicate the interpretation of magnetic field-induced
biological effects and introduce uncertainties regarding cytotoxicity in
practical applications. The static magnetic field (SMF) with few
variables and high biocompatibility presents a promising alternative for
both understanding biological mechanisms and ensuring safe
applications, but has a remaining problem on weak interactions with
microorganisms. Here we show that the combination of SMF with
paramagnetic calcium-polypyrrole nanoparticles (Ca-PPy) remarkably
enhances bactericidal activity. Our experiments indicate that the
synergistic action of SMF and Ca-PPy significantly promotes the
generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), i.e., singlet oxygen and
superoxide anion radicals, in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), coupled with the physical disruption
of bacterial membrane, exhibiting the extraordinary bactericidal
performance (the bactericidal rate is over 94%). The mechanism disclosed
by computations is that the singlet-to-triplet transition of radical
pairs can be increased by the introduction of magnetic fields. These
findings offer new insights into the biological effects of magnetic
fields and pave the way for their safe, highly effective use in
bactericidal applications.
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Magneto-oncology: a radical pair primer
Hore PJ. Magneto-oncology: a radical pair primer. Front Oncol. 2025 Mar 7;15:1539718. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2025.1539718
Abstract
There are few well-established biophysical mechanisms by which external magnetic fields can influence the biochemistry of molecules in living systems. The radical pair mechanism is arguably the most promising. In this mini-review I summarize the characteristics of radical pairs in a way that may be useful to those engaged in the field of magneto-oncology. The intention is to help researchers decide whether an observed biomedical magnetic field effect could have its origin in radical pair biochemistry. Armed with a physically plausible interaction mechanism, it may be possible to devise and refine a theoretical model and thereby iteratively optimise therapeutic protocols. Such an approach may also help identify experimental artefacts.
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Perspectives on terahertz honey bee sensing
Prokscha A, Sheikh F, Jalali M et al. Perspectives on terahertz honey bee sensing. Sci Rep 15, 10638 (2025). doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-91630-8.
Abstract
Terahertz (THz) technology provides precise monitoring capabilities in
dynamic environments, offering unique insights into insect habitats. Our
study focuses on environmental monitoring of European honey bees (Apis
mellifera) through a combination of measurements and simulations.
Initially, the dielectric material properties of honey bee body parts
are characterized across the spectral range of 1–500 GHz to collect
heterogeneous empirical data. To extend the study, honey bee mockups
made from polyamide 12 (PA12) and epoxy resin are employed and validated
as effective substitutes for real bees through comparative scattering
analyses. The research further explores radar cross-section (RCS),
imaging, and spectral properties using advanced THz technologies,
including resonant tunneling diodes (RTDs) operating at 250 GHz and THz
time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) for frequencies exceeding 250 GHz.
High-resolution imaging, utilizing a 450 GHz bandwidth, captures
intricate anatomical features of both real and 3D-printed bees,
showcasing the potential of THz technology for detailed environmental
monitoring. Finally, simulations at 300 GHz assess the dosimetry and
feasibility of non-invasive, continuous monitoring approaches based on
the heterogeneous honey bee model.
Open access paper: https://www.nature.com/
Sensation of
electric fields in the Drosophila melanogaster larva
Tadres D, Riedl J, Eden A, Bontempo AE, Lin
J, Reid SF, Roehrich B, Williams K, Sepunaru L, Louis M. Sensation of
electric fields in the Drosophila melanogaster larva. Curr Biol. 2025
Mar 28:S0960-9822(25)00299-4. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.014.
Abstract
Electrosensation has emerged as a crucial sensory modality for social
communication, foraging, and predation across the animal kingdom.
However, its presence and functional role as well as the neural basis of
electric field perception in Drosophila and other invertebrates remain
unclear. In environments with controlled electric fields, we identified
electrosensation as a new sense in the Drosophila melanogaster larva. We
found that the Drosophila larva performs robust electrotaxis: when
exposed to a uniform electric field, larvae migrate toward the cathode
(negatively charged elecrode) and quickly respond to changes in the
orientation of the field to maintain cathodal movement. Through a
behavioral screen, we identified a subset of sensory neurons located at
the tip of the larval head that are necessary for electrotaxis. Calcium
imaging revealed that a pair of Gr66a-positive sensory neurons (one on
each side of the head) encodes the strength and orientation of the
electric field. Our results indicate that electric fields elicit robust
behavioral and neural responses in the Drosophila larva, providing new
evidence for the significance of electrosensation in invertebrates.
Open access paper: https://www.cell.com/current-
