The radiation RF-EMF causes damages to DNA and tissue and even disrupt the blood-brain barrier. These effects are real and ARPANSA is active in collaborating within the EHS community, medical professionals and researchers. The agency will continue study research related to the health effects caused by EMF radiation.
DNA damage is caused by RF-EMF
Exposure to man-made electromagnetic fields (EMFs) can cause DNA damage and other negative health effects. EMFs can affect the intracellular ionic concentrations that are essential to ensure the balance of electrochemical activity in cells. It can also alter the balance of cell metabolism, resulting damages to the DNA. Moreover exposure to EMFs is also linked to an increase in the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Exposure to RF-EMF radiation has been associated with changes in male germ cells' development. This results in the differentiation of the germ cell into spermatozoa as well functioning maturation when the spermatozoa move across the epididymis. To investigate the effect of RF-EMF exposure on male germ cells A specially designed waveguide machine was designed to expose unrestrained mice to RF-EMF with a dose of 2.2 W/kg.
In a recent study researchers found exposure to RF-EME causes the oxidation of DNA in spermatozoa. Sperm DNA fragmentation increased by 18% following an entire week of treatment and by 23 percent after 5 weeks. Furthermore, DNA damage in mitochondria was observed by measuring the level of a biomarker, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG).
However it isn't yet considered to be a carcinogen. However, numerous studies have revealed that RF-EMF exposure can impair the integrity of DNA in range of cell types. In one such study researchers exposed Vero cells to an EMF that was 100Hz, for 45 minutes. They measured DNA damage within 48 hours of exposure to determine if the exposure affected DNA integrity.
The effect of RF-EMF on tissue heating
Although the effects of RF-EMF are generally thought to have thermal origins, some studies have revealed that non-thermal influences are also evident. These effects may account for some of the unsolved issues in epidemiological studies on EMF hypersensitivity. It is therefore important to look at the non-thermal aspects when conducting systematic reviews.
Effects that are not thermal from RF-EMF may occur at the cell membrane. This is a field where research has been thoroughly examined. In particular, the electrochemical behavior of cell membranes has been investigated. It is believed that energy from RF-EMF higher than 1 MHz is transmitted to the tissue via dielectric dissipation and ionic discharge. Studies of the theory have suggested that the energy that is transferred to the tissue could be up to 200 kV/m.
The electric properties of tissues are controlled in the form and quantity of water molecules and ions, and other molecules within the body. This determines how well absorbed EMR from RF is absorbed by different tissues. The tissues with the highest conductivity tend to absorb more field, and thus cause more of an impact. This is why the level of tissue heating doesn't increase continuously from outside to inside the body and is only noticeable in hot spots. Bone and fatty tissues are less susceptible to RF heating than other tissues, because they have a low water content.
The intensity of the field's penetration is determined by the frequency and strength of the field. Muscle tissue absorbs more field energy than other tissues, and converts it into heat more efficiently. Usually, emf radiation symptoms of penetration of RF-EMF is measured by millimeters (mm). The greater the frequency, the deeper the penetration.
RF-EMF causes blood-brain barrier disruption
Researchers have found that RF EMF could disrupt the blood-brain barrier which can alter sleep patterns and neurotransmitter levels. Additionally the impacts that EMF in brain activities are associated with neurodegenerative diseases. For instance, EMF from mobile phones can affect electroencephalogram activity and sleep patterns, as well as the activity of nitric oxide and xanthin oxidase.
Researchers at the Vienna University have studied the effects of exposure to RF-EMF in brain cells. They also studied what effects ELF EMFs on the nervous system. Though the cellular mechanisms aren't completely understood, there is a clear connection between exposure to ELF-EMF and depletion of myelin. This relationship might account for the electro-hypersensitivity symptoms of electro-hypersensitivity. There are, however, known methods to regenerate myelin within the brain.
Researchers have discovered that exposure to the frequency of 900 millimeters EMF increased the permeability of BBB and caused an increase in the signs of neuronal injury in rats. They also observed an increase in the release of albumin into neurons. Additionally, emf radiation observed in 30 minutes 900 MHz exposure 99mTc-MIBI accelerated its penetration to the cerebral cortex. However this effect didn't occur when using Evans blue injections.
Despite emf radiation , RF EMF does not have a clear method for disrupting the BBB. Research suggests that EMF exposure increases erythrocyte membrane permeability. This could alter the BBB and enhance the efflux of calcium ions. Moreover, the presence of a 99mTc-MIBI radiotracer within the brain has been linked to increased permeability of BBB.