The radiation RF-EMF causes damage to DNA, heat up of tissues and even disrupt the blood brain barrier. These effects are real, and ARPANSA is actively engaged in discussions with EHS communities, medical experts, and researchers. ARPANSA will continue study research related to the health effects caused by EMF radiation.
RF-EMF causes DNA damage
Exposure to man-made electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are associated with DNA damage and other negative health adverse effects. EMFs can affect intracellular ionic concentrations, which are vital to maintain a cell's electrochemical balance. what is emf radiation can cause disruption to cell homeostasis and result in DNA damage. Furthermore exposure to EMFs can cause the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
The exposure to radiation from RF-EMF has been associated with changes in male germ cell development. This involves the transformation of germ cells into spermatozoa, as well functioning maturation as spermatozoa pass throughout the epididymis. To determine the effect of RF-EMF exposure on the development of male germ cells, a specifically-designed waveguide machine was constructed to expose mice that were not restrained to RF-EME in the range of 2.2 W/kg.
In a recent study, researchers found that exposure to RF-EME caused oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa. Sperm DNA fragmentation was increased by 18% after an entire week of treatment and by 23% after five weeks. Furthermore, DNA damage in mitochondria was observed by measuring the level of a biomarker, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG).
However, the radiation emitted by RF-EMF isn't yet recognized as a true carcinogen. However, emf radiation symptoms have revealed that exposure to RF-EMF radiation can damage DNA integrity in a variety of cell types. In one such study, scientists were exposed Vero cell lines to EMF of 100 Hz for 45 minutes. They measured DNA damage within 48 hours of exposure to determine whether the exposure affected DNA integrity.
The RF-EMF effect causes the heating of tissues
While the effects of RF EMF are typically considered to have thermal origins, some studies have demonstrated that non-thermal effects are also present. These may be the reason for certain of the unsolved findings in the epidemiological study of EMF hypersensitivity. It is therefore important to take into account non-thermal effects when conducting an exhaustive review.
The non-thermal effects of RF-EMF could be mediated by the cell membrane. This is a field where research has been extensively studied. Particularly the electrochemical properties of cell membranes has been investigated. It is believed that energy from RF-EMF higher than 1 MHz is transmitted to the tissue through dielectric as well as ionic dissipation. The theoretical studies have indicated that the energy that is transferred to the tissue could be as high as 200 kV/m.
The electric properties of tissue are regulated through the distribution and composition of water molecules and other substances in the body. This determines how well absorbed EMR from RF is absorbed by different tissues. Tissues with higher conductivity tend to absorb more of the field, and thus cause more of an effect. This is why the level of tissue heating is not constant as it moves from the exterior to the body, but occurs in hot areas. Bone and fatty tissues are less prone to RF heating than other tissues because they have a low water content.
The extent of penetration of electromagnetic fields depends on the frequency and strength of field. Muscle tissue absorbs more energies than the other tissue, and converts it to heat more efficiently. Usually what is emf radiation of penetration for RF EMF is determined by millimeters (mm). But, the higher the frequency, the deeper the penetration.
RF-EMF causes blood-brain barrier disruption
Researchers have discovered that RF-EMF can alter the blood-brain-barrier change sleep patterns as well as neurotransmitter levels. In addition the impacts that EMF in brain activities have been linked to neurodegenerative disorders. For instance, EMF from mobile phones can alter electroencephalogram activity as well as sleep patterns, in addition to the actions of nitric Oxide and xanthin oxide.
Researchers at Vienna University have studied the effects of RF-EMF exposure in brain cells. They also looked at what effects ELF EMF on brain system. Though the cellular mechanisms that are involved aren't fully understood but there is a clear relationship between exposure to ELF EMF and depletion of myelin. This relationship might account for the electro-hypersensitivity symptoms of electro-hypersensitivity. However, there are tested methods to regenerate myelin inside the brain.
Researchers have observed that exposure to frequencies of 900 MHz EMF enhanced the permeability of BBB and also increased the signs of neuronal damage in rats. They also observed increased extravasation of albumin to neurons. Furthermore, they discovered in 30 minutes exposure to 900 MHz 99mTc-MIBI accelerated its penetration in the cortex. However, this effect did not occur when using Evans blue-based injections.
Despite these findings, RF EMF is not able to provide a definitive mechanism to disrupt the BBB. Research suggests that EMF exposure can increase erythrocyte membrane permeability. This could affect the BBB and also increase the efflux of calcium ions. Moreover, the presence of a 99mTcMIBI radiotracer inside the brain has also been linked to increasing the permeability of BBB.
