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/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2025.1550427/full
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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
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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/bioengineering12030257.
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].
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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
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.
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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%.
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.
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A Decision
Support System for Managing Health Symptoms of Living Near Mobile Phone
Base Stations
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.
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/article_49803.html
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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.
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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.
Exposure System and Exposure Protocol to 5G-3.5 GHz Signals
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.
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].
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.
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
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.
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.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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