RF-EMF radiation can cause damage to DNA, increase the temperature of tissues and even disrupt the blood-brain barrier. These are real-world effects, and ARPANSA is actively engaged in discussions with EHS community, medical experts, and researchers. ARPANSA will continue review research on the health effects caused by EMF radiation.
RF-EMF causes DNA damage
Exposure to man-made electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are associated with DNA damage, as well as other adverse health consequences. emf radiation can affect the intracellular ionic levels, which are vital to maintain the balance of electrochemical activity in cells. In turn, this can alter the balance of cell metabolism, resulting in DNA damage. Furthermore, exposure to EMFs is also associated with an increase in the production of free radicals as well as reactive oxygen species (ROS).
The exposure to radiation from RF-EMF has been linked to changes in male germ cell development. This results in the differentiation of the germ cell into spermatozoa as well functional maturation when the spermatozoa pass throughout the epididymis. To investigate the effects of RF-EMF on male germ cell development A specially designed waveguide machine was constructed for the exposure of mice that were not restrained to RF-EME at 2.2 W/kg.
In a study that was conducted recently, researchers discovered that exposure to RF-EME caused the oxidative DNA damage of the spermatozoa. Sperm DNA fragmentation increased by 18% after a week of treatment, and by 23% after 5 weeks. Furthermore, DNA damage in mitochondria was observed by measuring the level of a biomarker, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG).
Although the RF-EMF radiation has not yet been considered to be a carcinogen. But, several studies have shown that exposure to RF-EMF can affect DNA integrity in a range of cell varieties. In one of these studies researchers were exposed Vero cells to an EMF that was 100Hz, for 45 minutes. They assessed DNA damage for within 48 hours of exposure to determine if exposure affected DNA integrity.
RF-EMF causes what is emf radiation heating
While the effects of RF EMF are usually believed to have thermal origins, some studies have revealed that non-thermal effects are also observed. These factors could be responsible for some of the unresolved issues in epidemiological studies of EMF hypersensitivity. It is therefore important to consider the non-thermal effects when conducting an extensive review.
The non-thermal effects of RF-EMF could occur at the cell membrane. This is a field of research that has been thoroughly studied. In particular the electrochemical properties of cell membranes has been studied. It is believed that RF-EMF energy that exceeds 1 MHz is transmitted to the tissue through dielectric and Ionic dissipation. Previous theoretical analyses indicated that the energy transferred to tissues could be up to 200 kV/m.
The electrical properties of tissues are regulated through the distribution and composition of water molecules, and other molecules in the body. This determines how well absorbed EMR RF is by various tissues. Organs with greater conductivity are likely to absorb more EMR field and produce more of an impact. is emf radiation harmful is why the level of heating in tissues does not increase steadily between the outside and inside the body, but occurs in hot areas. Bone and fatty tissue is less susceptible to RF heating as compared to other tissues, since they are low in water content.
The intensity of penetration of electromagnetic fields depends on the frequency and strength of the field. Muscle tissue absorbs more field energy than other tissues, and converts it to heat more efficiently. Usually, the depth of penetration of RF-EMF is measured in millimeters (mm). However, the higher the frequency, the shallower the penetration.
RF-EMF causes blood-brain barrier disruption
Researchers have discovered that RF EMF can disrupt the blood-brain barrier which can alter sleep patterns and neurotransmitter levels. In addition, the effects that EMF in brain activities are linked to neurodegenerative disorders. For instance, EMF from mobile phones could affect the electroencephalogram's activity and sleep patterns, as well as the activities of nitric oxide and xanthin oxidase.
Researchers from the Vienna University have studied the effects of exposure to RF EMF to brain cells. They also looked at the effects of ELF EMFs on the nervous system. Although the cellular mechanisms involved are not completely comprehended but there is a clear relationship between exposure to ELF EMF and myelin depletion. This relationship might account for the electro-hypersensitivity symptoms of electro-hypersensitivity. However, there are known methods for regenerating myelin inside the brain.
Researchers have discovered that exposure to the frequency of 900 millimeters EMF caused a rise in the permeability of BBB and increased indicators of neuronal injury in rodents. They also observed increased exovasation of albumin to neurons. Furthermore, they discovered the following: after 30 mins of 900 MHz exposure 99mTc-MIBI accelerated its diffusion to the cerebral cortex. However this effect didn't occur when using Evans blue-based injections.
However, RF-EMF is not able to provide a definitive method for disrupting the BBB. Research suggests that EMF exposure increases erythrocyte membrane permeability, which may affect the BBB and also increase the efflux of calcium ions. Additionally, the presence of a 99mTc-MIBI radiotracer within the brain has been linked to increased permeability of BBB.