The Role of Electromagnetic Fields in Neuronal Health

Abstract

Modern wireless technology saturates our airways in electromagnetic radiation. There is ongoing debate about the safety of the signals used in these industries. Despite some evidence of biological effects, regulatory bodies are satisfied that these technologies are safe. This project aimed to explore the ability of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation to influence cellular biology in a neuronal context. The antennae used to generate this radiation operated with low emission power, to minimise or eliminate the likelihood of heating effects being involved. Initial work involved establishing a Faraday chamber adapted to suit cell culture work. This was done to create a kind of electromagnetic radiation dead space inside the chamber, which could then be used to analyse biological effects associated with specific signals introduced using a signal generator. Alongside this a simple 5G phone setup was used to run experiments in parallel for comparative purposes. Next, a series of biological assays were carried out in both setups in the presence and absence of electromagnetic radiation. These assays were designed to probe various aspects of cellular biology, such as metabolic viability, redox homeostasis and energy metabolism. The final section includes genetic expression profile analysis of whole-cell lysates from irradiated and non-irradiated cells. Collectively our results present compelling evidence of biological effects occurring as a result of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation exposure – despite their perceived safety.