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Jammoul M, Lawand N. Melatonin: a Potential Shield against Electromagnetic Waves. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 20:648-660. [PMID: 34635042 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210609163946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin, a vital hormone synthesized by the pineal gland, has been implicated in various physiological functions and in circadian rhythm regulation. Its role in the protection against the non-ionizing electromagnetic field (EMF), known to disrupt the body's oxidative/anti-oxidative balance, has been called into question due to inconsistent results observed across studies. This review provides the current state of knowledge on the interwoven relationship between melatonin, EMF, and oxidative stress. Based on synthesized evidence, we present a model that best describes the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of melatonin against RF/ELF-EMF induced oxidative stress. We show that the free radical scavenger activity of melatonin is enabled through reduction of the radical pair singlet-triplet conversion rate and the concentration of the triplet products. Moreover, this review aims to highlight the potential therapeutic benefits of melatonin against the detrimental effects of EMF, in general, and electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Jammoul
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut. Lebanon
| | - Nada Lawand
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut. Lebanon
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Selmaoui B, Touitou Y. Association Between Mobile Phone Radiation Exposure and the Secretion of Melatonin and Cortisol, Two Markers of the Circadian System: A Review. Bioelectromagnetics 2020; 42:5-17. [PMID: 33238059 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The extremely important use of mobile phones in the world, at all ages of life, including children and adolescents, leads to significant exposure of these populations to electromagnetic waves of radiofrequency. The question, therefore, arises as to whether exposure to these radiofrequencies (RFs) could lead to deleterious effects on the body's biological systems and health. In the current article, we review the effects, in laboratory animals and humans, of exposure to RF on two hormones considered as endocrine markers: melatonin, a neurohormone produced by the pineal gland and cortisol, a glucocorticosteroid synthesized by the adrenal glands. These two hormones are also considered as markers of the circadian system. The literature search was performed using PubMed, Medline, Web of Sciences (ISI Web of Knowledge), Google Scholar, and EMF Portal. From this review on RF effects on cortisol and melatonin, it appears that scientific papers in the literature are conflicting, showing effects, no effects, or inconclusive data. This implies the need for additional research on higher numbers of subjects and with protocols perfectly controlled with follow-up studies to better determine whether the chronic effect of RF on the biological functioning and health of users exists (or not). Bioelectromagnetics. 2021;42:5-17. © 2020 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahim Selmaoui
- Department of Experimental Toxicology, Institut National de l'Environnement Industriel et des Risques (INERIS), Verneuil-en-Halatte, France.,PériTox Laboratory, UMR-I 01 INERIS, Picardie Jules Verne University, Amiens, France
| | - Yvan Touitou
- Fondation Ophtalmologique A. de Rothschild, Unité de Chronobiologie, Paris, France
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Kivrak EG, Altunkaynak BZ, Alkan I, Yurt KK, Kocaman A, Onger ME. Effects of 900-MHz radiation on the hippocampus and cerebellum of adult rats and attenuation of such effects by folic acid and Boswellia sacra. J Microsc Ultrastruct 2017; 5:216-224. [PMID: 30023257 PMCID: PMC6025788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmau.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The radiation emitted from mobile phones has various deleterious effects on human health. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of exposure to the 900-MHz radiation electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by mobile phones on Ammon's horn and the dentate gyrus (DG) in the hippocampus and cerebellum of male Wistar albino rats. We also investigated the neuroprotective effects of the antioxidants Boswellia sacra (BS) and folic acid (FA) against exposure to EMF. Twenty-four adult male rats were randomly divided into four groups of six animals each, an EMF group, an EMF + FA exposure group (EFA), an EMF + BS exposure group (EBS) and a control group (Cont). The EMF, EFA and EBS groups were exposed to 900-MHz EMF radiation inside a tube once daily over 21 days (60 min/day). The Cont group was not exposed to 900-MHz EMF. The results showed that EMF caused a significant decrease in total pyramidal and granular cell numbers in the hippocampus, and DG and in Purkinje cell numbers in the cerebellum in the EMF group compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). BS and FA attenuated the neurodegenerative effects of EMF in the hippocampus and cerebellum. Significant differences were also determined between the numbers of neurons in the EFA and EMF groups, and between the EBS and EMF groups (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences among Cont, EFA and EBS (p > 0.05). Our results may contribute to ongoing research into the effects of 900-MHz EMF exposure. Abbreviations: BS, Boswellia sacra; CA, cornu ammonis; CAT, catalase; CE, coefficient of error; CV, coefficient of variation; DG, dentate gyrus; DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid; EMF, electromagnetic field; EBS, the group that is exposed to EMF and received a single daily gavage of BS (500 mg/kg/day) during 21 days; EEG, electroencephalogram; EFA, the group that is exposed to EMF and received a single daily gavage of folic acid (50 mg/kg/day) during 21 days; FA, folic acid; gr, granular layer; H2O2, hydrogen peroxide; MHz, Megahertz; ml, molecular layer; RF, radiofrequency; ROS, reactive oxygen specimens; SEM, standard error of the mean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elfide Gizem Kivrak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Berrin Zuhal Altunkaynak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Isinsu Alkan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Kiymet Kubra Yurt
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Adem Kocaman
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Emin Onger
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
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Kaplan S. Response to the letter by Mortazavi et al. Int J Radiat Biol 2017; 93:663-664. [DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2017.1310406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Süleyman Kaplan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
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Altun G, Kaplan S, Deniz OG, Kocacan SE, Canan S, Davis D, Marangoz C. Protective effects of melatonin and omega-3 on the hippocampus and the cerebellum of adult Wistar albino rats exposed to electromagnetic fields. J Microsc Ultrastruct 2017; 5:230-241. [PMID: 30023259 PMCID: PMC6025784 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmau.2017.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2017] [Revised: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of pulsed digital electromagnetic radiation emitted by mobile phones on the central nervous system of the adult Wistar albino rats. The study evaluated structural and functional impacts of four treatment arms: electromagnetic field (EMF) exposed; EMF exposed + melatonin treated group (EMF + Mel); EMF exposed + omega-3 (ω3) treated group (EMF + ω3); and control group (Cont). The 12-weeks-old rats were exposed to 900 MHz EMF for 60 min/day (4:00–5:00 p.m.) for 15 days. Stereological, biochemical and electrophysiological techniques were applied to evaluate protective effects of Mel and ω3. Significant cell loss in the CA1 and CA2 regions of hippocampus were observed in the EMF compared to other groups (p < 0.01). In the CA3 region of the EMF + ω3, a significant cell increase was found compared to other groups (p < 0.01). Granular cell loss was observed in the dentate gyrus of the EMF compared to the Cont (p < 0.01). EMF + ω3 has more granular cells in the cerebellum than the Cont, EMF + Mel (p < 0.01). Significant Purkinje cell loss was found in the cerebellum of EMF group compared to the other (p < 0.01). EMF + Mel and EMF + ω3 showed the same protection compared to the Cont (p > 0.05). The passive avoidance test showed that entrance latency into the dark compartment was significantly shorter in the EMF (p < 0.05). Additionally, EMF had a higher serum enzyme activity than the other groups (p < 0.01). In conclusion, our analyses confirm that EMF may lead to cellular damage in the hippocampus and the cerebellum, and that Mel and ω3 may have neuroprotective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamze Altun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
- Corresponding author. E-mail address: (G. Altun)
| | - Suleyman Kaplan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Omur Gulsum Deniz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, Samsun, Turkey
| | | | - Sinan Canan
- Department of Psychology, Üsküdar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Devra Davis
- Department of Medicine and Public Health, The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
- Environmental Health Trust, Teton Village, WY, USA
| | - Cafer Marangoz
- Department of Physiology, Medical Faculty, Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Kim HS, Paik MJ, Lee YH, Lee YS, Choi HD, Pack JK, Kim N, Ahn YH. Eight hours of nocturnal 915 MHz radiofrequency identification (RFID) exposure reduces urinary levels of melatonin and its metabolite via pineal arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase activity in male rats. Int J Radiat Biol 2016; 91:898-907. [PMID: 26189731 DOI: 10.3109/09553002.2015.1075075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the effects of whole-body exposure to the 915 MHz radiofrequency identification (RFID) on melatonin biosynthesis and the activity of rat pineal arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT). MATERIALS AND METHODS Rats were exposed to RFID (whole-body specific absorption rate, 4 W/kg) for 8 h/day, 5 days/week, for weeks during the nighttime. Total volume of urine excreted during a 24-h period was collected after RFID exposure. Urinary melatonin and 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (6-OHMS) was measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. AANAT enzyme activity was measured using liquid biphasic dif-13 fusion assay. Protein levels and mRNA expression of AANAT was 14 measured by Western blot and reverse transcription polymerase 15 chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis, respectively. RESULTS Eight hours of nocturnal RFID exposure caused a significant reduction in both urinary melatonin (p = 0. 003) and 6-OHMS (p = 0. 026). Activity, protein levels, and mRNA expression of AANAT were suppressed by exposure to RFID (p < 0. 05). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that nocturnal RFID exposure can cause reductions in the levels of both urinary melatonin and 6-OHMS, possibly due to decreased melatonin biosynthesis via suppression of Aanat gene transcription in the rat pineal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Sun Kim
- a Department of Neurosurgery , Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon
| | - Man-Jeong Paik
- b College of Pharmacy , Sunchon National University , Sunchon
| | - Yu Hee Lee
- a Department of Neurosurgery , Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon ;,c Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences , Graduate School of Ajou University , Suwon
| | - Yun-Sil Lee
- d Division of Life Science and Pharmaceuticals, College of Pharmacy , Ewha Woman's University , Seoul
| | - Hyung Do Choi
- e Radio Technology Research Department , Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute , Daejeon
| | - Jeong-Ki Pack
- f Department of Radio Sciences and Engineering, College of Engineering , Chungnam National University , Daejeon
| | - Nam Kim
- g School of Electrical and Computer Engineering , Chungbuk National University , Cheongju , Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hwan Ahn
- a Department of Neurosurgery , Ajou University School of Medicine , Suwon ;,c Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences , Graduate School of Ajou University , Suwon
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Redlarski G, Lewczuk B, Żak A, Koncicki A, Krawczuk M, Piechocki J, Jakubiuk K, Tojza P, Jaworski J, Ambroziak D, Skarbek Ł, Gradolewski D. The influence of electromagnetic pollution on living organisms: historical trends and forecasting changes. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:234098. [PMID: 25811025 PMCID: PMC4355556 DOI: 10.1155/2015/234098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Current technologies have become a source of omnipresent electromagnetic pollution from generated electromagnetic fields and resulting electromagnetic radiation. In many cases this pollution is much stronger than any natural sources of electromagnetic fields or radiation. The harm caused by this pollution is still open to question since there is no clear and definitive evidence of its negative influence on humans. This is despite the fact that extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields were classified as potentially carcinogenic. For these reasons, in recent decades a significant growth can be observed in scientific research in order to understand the influence of electromagnetic radiation on living organisms. However, for this type of research the appropriate selection of relevant model organisms is of great importance. It should be noted here that the great majority of scientific research papers published in this field concerned various tests performed on mammals, practically neglecting lower organisms. In that context the objective of this paper is to systematise our knowledge in this area, in which the influence of electromagnetic radiation on lower organisms was investigated, including bacteria, E. coli and B. subtilis, nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, land snail, Helix pomatia, common fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, and clawed frog, Xenopus laevis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Redlarski
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, Electronics, and Control Engineering, University of Warmia and Mazury, Oczapowskiego Street 11, 10-736 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Bogdan Lewczuk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Oczapowskiego Street 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Żak
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Andrzej Koncicki
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Oczapowskiego Street 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marek Krawczuk
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Janusz Piechocki
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, Electronics, and Control Engineering, University of Warmia and Mazury, Oczapowskiego Street 11, 10-736 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kazimierz Jakubiuk
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Piotr Tojza
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Jacek Jaworski
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dominik Ambroziak
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Łukasz Skarbek
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Dawid Gradolewski
- Department of Mechatronics and High Voltage Engineering, Gdansk University of Technology, Własna Strzecha Street 18A, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
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Cao H, Qin F, Liu X, Wang J, Cao Y, Tong J, Zhao H. Circadian rhythmicity of antioxidant markers in rats exposed to 1.8 GHz radiofrequency fields. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:2071-87. [PMID: 25685954 PMCID: PMC4344711 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120202071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: The potential health risks of exposure to Radiofrequency Fields (RF) emitted by mobile phones are currently of considerable public interest, such as the adverse effects on the circadian rhythmicities of biological systems. To determine whether circadian rhythms of the plasma antioxidants (Mel, GSH-Px and SOD) are affected by RF, we performed a study on male Sprague Dawley rats exposed to the 1.8 GHz RF. Methods: All animals were divided into seven groups. The animals in six groups were exposed to 1.8 GHz RF (201.7 μW/cm2 power density, 0.05653 W/kg specific absorption rate) at a specific period of the day (3, 7, 11, 15, 19 and 23 h GMT, respectively), for 2 h/day for 32 consecutive days. The rats in the seventh group were used as sham-exposed controls. At the end of last RF exposure, blood samples were collected from each rat every 4 h (total period of 24 h) and also at similar times from sham-exposed animals. The concentrations of three antioxidants (Mel, GSH-Px and SOD) were determined. The data in RF-exposed rats were compared with those in sham-exposed animals. Results: circadian rhythms in the synthesis of Mel and antioxidant enzymes, GSH-Px and SOD, were shifted in RF-exposed rats compared to sham-exposed animals: the Mel, GSH-Px and SOD levels were significantly decreased when RF exposure was given at 23 and 3 h GMT. Conclusion: The overall results indicate that there may be adverse effects of RF exposure on antioxidant function, in terms of both the daily antioxidative levels, as well as the circadian rhythmicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglong Cao
- School of Electronic & Information Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Fenju Qin
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China.
| | - Xueguan Liu
- School of Electronic & Information Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Jiajun Wang
- School of Electronic & Information Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
| | - Yi Cao
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Jian Tong
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Heming Zhao
- School of Electronic & Information Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China.
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Influence of electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields on the circadian system: current stage of knowledge. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:169459. [PMID: 25136557 PMCID: PMC4130204 DOI: 10.1155/2014/169459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2014] [Revised: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
One of the side effects of each electrical device work is the electromagnetic field generated near its workplace. All organisms, including humans, are exposed daily to the influence of different types of this field, characterized by various physical parameters. Therefore, it is important to accurately determine the effects of an electromagnetic field on the physiological and pathological processes occurring in cells, tissues, and organs. Numerous epidemiological and experimental data suggest that the extremely low frequency magnetic field generated by electrical transmission lines and electrically powered devices and the high frequencies electromagnetic radiation emitted by electronic devices have a potentially negative impact on the circadian system. On the other hand, several studies have found no influence of these fields on chronobiological parameters. According to the current state of knowledge, some previously proposed hypotheses, including one concerning the key role of melatonin secretion disruption in pathogenesis of electromagnetic field induced diseases, need to be revised. This paper reviews the data on the effect of electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields on melatonin and cortisol rhythms—two major markers of the circadian system as well as on sleep. It also provides the basic information about the nature, classification, parameters, and sources of these fields.
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Kim HS, Paik MJ, Kim YJ, Lee G, Lee YS, Choi HD, Kim BC, Pack JK, Kim N, Ahn YH. Effects of whole-body exposure to 915 MHz RFID on secretory functions of the thyroid system in rats. Bioelectromagnetics 2013; 34:521-9. [PMID: 23744731 DOI: 10.1002/bem.21797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2012] [Accepted: 04/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
As a part of an investigation on the potential risks of radiofrequency identification (RFID) on human health, we studied whether exposure to 915 MHz RFID in rats significantly affected the secretory function of the thyroid system. A reverberation chamber was used as a whole-body exposure system. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed for 8 h per day, 5 days per week, for a duration of 2, 4, 8, or 16 weeks. The estimated whole-body average specific absorption rate (SAR) varied from 3.2 to 4.6 W/kg depending on the age/mass of the animals for the field of the 915 MHz RFID reader. Plasma levels of triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) were evaluated via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Morphological changes in the thyroid gland were then analyzed. No changes in T3, T4, or TSH were observed over time between the sham- and RFID-exposed groups. We suggest that subchronic exposure to 915 MHz RFID at a SAR of 4 W/kg does not cause significant effects on thyroid secretory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Sun Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
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Kim HS, An YS, Paik MJ, Lee YS, Choi HD, Kim BC, Pack JK, Kim N, Ahn YH. The effects of exposure to 915 MHz radiofrequency identification on cerebral glucose metabolism in rat: a [F-18] FDG micro-PET study. Int J Radiat Biol 2013; 89:750-5. [PMID: 23581879 DOI: 10.3109/09553002.2013.791756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the effect of whole-body exposure to 915-MHz radiofrequency identification (RFID) on rat cortical glucose metabolism by using (18)F-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET). MATERIALS AND METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: Cage-control, sham-exposed and RFID-exposed groups. Rats were exposed to the 915-MHz RFID for 8 h daily, 5 days per week, for 2 or 16 weeks. The whole-body average specific absorption rate (SAR) was 4 W/kg for the field of the 915 MHz RFID signal. FDG-PET images were obtained the day after RFID exposure, using micro-PET with a FDG tracer. With a Xeleris functional imaging workstation, absolute values in regions of interest (ROI) in the frontal, temporal and parietal cortexes and cerebellum were measured. Cortical ROI values were normalized to the cerebellar value and compared. RESULTS The data showed that the relative cerebral glucose metabolic rate was unchanged in the frontal, temporal and parietal cortexes of the 915 MHz RFID-exposed rats, compared with rats in cage-control and sham-exposed groups. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that 915 MHz RFID radiation exposure did not cause a significant long lasting effect on glucose metabolism in the rat brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Sun Kim
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
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Dyche J, Anch AM, Fogler KAJ, Barnett DW, Thomas C. Effects of power frequency electromagnetic fields on melatonin and sleep in the rat. EMERGING HEALTH THREATS JOURNAL 2012; 5:EHTJ-5-10904. [PMID: 22529876 PMCID: PMC3334267 DOI: 10.3402/ehtj.v5i0.10904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2011] [Revised: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 03/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Studies investigating the effect of power frequency (50–60 Hz) electromagnetic fields (EMF) on melatonin synthesis in rats have been inconsistent with several showing suppression of melatonin synthesis, others showing no effect and a few actually demonstrating small increases. Scant research has focused on the ensuing sleep patterns of EMF exposed rats. The present study was designed to examine the effects of extremely low power frequency electromagnetic fields (EMF) on the production of melatonin and the subsequent sleep structure in rats. Methods Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to a 1000 milligauss (mG) magnetic field for 1 month. Urine was collected for the final 3 days of the exposure period for analysis of 6-sulphatoxymelatonin, the major catabolic product of melatonin found in urine. Subsequent sleep was analyzed over a 24-hour period. Results Melatonin production was mildly increased in exposed animals. Although there were no statistically significant changes in sleep structure, exposed animals showed slight decreases in REM (rapid eye movement) sleep as compared to sham (non-exposed) animals. Conclusions Power frequency magnetic fields induced a marginally statistically significant increase in melatonin levels in exposed rats compared to control. Subsequent sleep analysis indicated little effect on the sleep architecture of rats, at least not within the first day after 1 month's continuous exposure. Varying results in the literature are discussed and future research suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Dyche
- Department of Psychology, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, USA
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Animal studies on growth and development. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2011; 107:404-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2011.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Colak C, Parlakpinar H, Ermis N, Tagluk ME, Colak C, Sarihan E, Dilek OF, Turan B, Bakir S, Acet A. Effects of electromagnetic radiation from 3G mobile phone on heart rate, blood pressure and ECG parameters in rats. Toxicol Ind Health 2011; 28:629-38. [DOI: 10.1177/0748233711420468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Effects of electromagnetic energy radiated from mobile phones (MPs) on heart is one of the research interests. The current study was designed to investigate the effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from third-generation (3G) MP on the heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP) and ECG parameters and also to investigate whether exogenous melatonin can exert any protective effect on these parameters. In this study 36 rats were randomized and evenly categorized into 4 groups: group 1 (3G-EMR exposed); group 2 (3G-EMR exposed + melatonin); group 3 (control) and group 4 (control + melatonin). The rats in groups 1 and 2 were exposed to 3G-specific MP’s EMR for 20 days (40 min/day; 20 min active (speech position) and 20 min passive (listening position)). Group 2 was also administered with melatonin for 20 days (5 mg/kg daily during the experimental period). ECG signals were recorded from cannulated carotid artery both before and after the experiment, and BP and HR were calculated on 1st, 3rd and 5th min of recordings. ECG signals were processed and statistically evaluated. In our experience, the obtained results did not show significant differences in the BP, HR and ECG parameters among the groups both before and after the experiment. Melatonin, also, did not exhibit any additional effects, neither beneficial nor hazardous, on the heart hemodynamics of rats. Therefore, the strategy (noncontact) of using a 3G MP could be the reason for ineffectiveness; and use of 3G MP, in this perspective, seems to be safer compared to the ones used in close contact with the head. However, further study is needed for standardization of such an assumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cengiz Colak
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | | | - Necip Ermis
- Department of Cardiology, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Emin Tagluk
- Department of Electrical and Electronics, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Cemil Colak
- Department of Biostatistics, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ediz Sarihan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | | | | | - Sevtap Bakir
- Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Acet
- Department of Pharmacology, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
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Dogan M, Turtay MG, Oguzturk H, Samdanci E, Turkoz Y, Tasdemir S, Alkan A, Bakir S. Effects of electromagnetic radiation produced by 3G mobile phones on rat brains: Magnetic resonance spectroscopy, biochemical, and histopathological evaluation. Hum Exp Toxicol 2011; 31:557-64. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327111412092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) produced by a third-generation (3G) mobile phone (MP) on rat brain tissues were investigated in terms of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), biochemistry, and histopathological evaluations. Methods: The rats were randomly assigned to two groups: Group 1 is composed of 3G-EMR-exposed rats ( n = 9) and Group 2 is the control group ( n = 9). The first group was subjected to EMR for 20 days. The control group was not exposed to EMR. Choline (Cho), creatinin (Cr), and N-acetylaspartate (NAA) levels were evaluated by MRS. Catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) enzyme activities were measured by spectrophotometric method. Histopathological analyses were carried out to evaluate apoptosis in the brain tissues of both groups. Results: In MRS, NAA/Cr, Cho/Cr, and NAA/Cho ratios were not significantly different between Groups 1 and 2. Neither the oxidative stress parameters, CAT and GSH-Px, nor the number of apoptotic cells were significantly different between Groups 1 and 2. Conclusions: Usage of short-term 3G MP does not seem to have a harmful effect on rat brain tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dogan
- Department of Radiology, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - MG Turtay
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - H Oguzturk
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - E Samdanci
- Department of Pathology, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Y Turkoz
- Department of Biochemistry, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - S Tasdemir
- Department of Pharmacology, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - A Alkan
- Department of Radiology, Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
| | - S Bakir
- Inonu University School of Medicine, Malatya, Turkey
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16
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Wood AW, Loughran SP, Stough C. Does evening exposure to mobile phone radiation affect subsequent melatonin production? Int J Radiat Biol 2009; 82:69-76. [PMID: 16546905 DOI: 10.1080/09553000600599775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To test whether exposure to the emissions from a digital mobile phone handset prior to sleep alters the secretion of melatonin. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a double-blind cross-over design, 55 adult volunteers were both actively exposed or sham-exposed (in random order on successive Sunday nights) to mobile phone emissions for 30 min (0.25 W average power). Urine collection occurred immediately prior to retiring to bed and on rising the next morning. Melatonin output was estimated from principal metabolite concentrations (6-sulphatoxymelatonin (aMT6s) via radioimmunoassay), urine volumes and creatinine concentrations. RESULTS Total melatonin metabolite output (concentration x urine volume) was unchanged between the two exposure conditions (active 14.1+/-1.1 microg; sham 14.6+/-1.3 microg). The pre- and post-bedtime outputs considered separately were also not significantly different, although the pre-bedtime value was less for active versus sham exposure. When melatonin metabolite output was estimated from the ratio of aMT6s to creatinine concentrations, the pre-bedtime value was significantly less (p = 0.037) for active compared to sham. Examination of individual responses is suggestive of a small group of 'responders'. CONCLUSIONS Total nighttime melatonin output is unchanged by mobile phone handset emissions, but there could be an effect on melatonin onset time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Wood
- Brain Sciences Institute, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Victoria, Australia.
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17
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Djeridane Y, Touitou Y, de Seze R. Influence of Electromagnetic Fields Emitted by GSM-900 Cellular Telephones on the Circadian Patterns of Gonadal, Adrenal and Pituitary Hormones in Men. Radiat Res 2008; 169:337-43. [DOI: 10.1667/rr0922.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2006] [Accepted: 10/09/2007] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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18
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Schmid G, Uberbacher R, Samaras T, Tschabitscher M, Mazal PR. The dielectric properties of human pineal gland tissue and RF absorption due to wireless communication devices in the frequency range 400–1850 MHz. Phys Med Biol 2007; 52:5457-68. [PMID: 17762098 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/52/17/024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In order to enable a detailed analysis of radio frequency (RF) absorption in the human pineal gland, the dielectric properties of a sample of 20 freshly removed pineal glands were measured less than 20 h after death. Furthermore, a corresponding high resolution numerical model of the brain region surrounding the pineal gland was developed, based on a real human tissue sample. After inserting this model into a commercially available numerical head model, FDTD-based computations for exposure scenarios with generic models of handheld devices operated close to the head in the frequency range 400-1850 MHz were carried out. For typical output power values of real handheld mobile communication devices, the obtained results showed only very small amounts of absorbed RF power in the pineal gland when compared to SAR limits according to international safety standards. The highest absorption was found for the 400 MHz irradiation. In this case the RF power absorbed inside the pineal gland (organ mass 96 mg) was as low as 11 microW, when considering a device of 500 mW output power operated close to the ear. For typical mobile phone frequencies (900 MHz and 1850 MHz) and output power values (250 mW and 125 mW) the corresponding values of absorbed RF power in the pineal gland were found to be lower by a factor of 4.2 and 36, respectively. These results indicate that temperature-related biologically relevant effects on the pineal gland induced by the RF emissions of typical handheld mobile communication devices are unlikely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Schmid
- Austrian Research Centers GmbH-ARC, ITM, A-2444 Seibersdorf, Austria.
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Platano D, Mesirca P, Paffi A, Pellegrino M, Liberti M, Apollonio F, Bersani F, Aicardi G. Acute exposure to low-level CW and GSM-modulated 900 MHz radiofrequency does not affect Ba2+ currents through voltage-gated calcium channels in rat cortical neurons. Bioelectromagnetics 2007; 28:599-607. [PMID: 17620299 DOI: 10.1002/bem.20345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We have studied the non-thermal effects of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on Ba(2+) currents (I Ba 2+) through voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC), recorded in primary cultures of rat cortical neurons using the patch-clamp technique. To assess whether low-level acute RF field exposure could modify the amplitude and/or the voltage-dependence of I Ba 2+, Petri dishes containing cultured neurons were exposed for 1-3 periods of 90 s to 900 MHz RF-EMF continuous wave (CW) or amplitude-modulated according to global system mobile communication standard (GSM) during whole-cell recording. The specific absorption rates (SARs) were 2 W/kg for CW and 2 W/kg (time average value) for GSM-modulated signals, respectively. The results obtained indicate that single or multiple acute exposures to either CW or GSM-modulated 900 MHz RF-EMFs do not significantly alter the current amplitude or the current-voltage relationship of I Ba 2+, through VGCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Platano
- Department of Human and General Physiology, University of Bologna, Italy
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