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Preliminary microwave irradiation of water solutions changes their channel-modifying activity.

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Fesenko EE, Geletyuk VI, Kazachenko VN, Chemeris NK · 1995

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Microwave exposure can alter water's biological properties for up to 20 minutes, suggesting EMF effects persist even after exposure ends.

Plain English Summary

Summary written for general audiences

Russian researchers exposed water solutions to millimeter microwaves (42.25 GHz) for 20-30 minutes, then used these treated solutions in experiments with calcium-dependent potassium channels in cell membranes. They found that the microwave-exposed water retained altered properties for 10-20 minutes after exposure ended, and these changes affected how ion channels (cellular gates that control electrical activity) functioned. This suggests microwaves can create lasting changes in water that indirectly affect biological processes.

Why This Matters

This 1995 study reveals a mechanism that challenges conventional thinking about how EMF affects biological systems. Rather than requiring direct exposure to cells, the research demonstrates that microwaves can alter the properties of water itself, creating a kind of 'water memory' that persists for 10-20 minutes. Since our bodies are roughly 60% water, this finding suggests EMF could influence cellular function indirectly through changes in the aqueous environment surrounding our cells. The study used 42.25 GHz frequencies, which fall in the millimeter wave range now being deployed in 5G networks. While the specific power levels aren't detailed, the researchers noted the exposure was 'non-thermal,' meaning it didn't heat the water. What this means for you: EMF effects on biological systems may be more complex and persistent than previously understood, operating through mechanisms we're only beginning to discover.

Exposure Information

Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study. Duration: 20-30 min

Study Details

The aim of this study is to observe Preliminary microwave irradiation of water solutions changes their channel-modifying activity

we present new data showing that similar changes in Po arise due to the substitution of a control ba...

Therefore, due to the exposure to the field the solution acquires some new properties that are impor...

The data suggest that the effects of the field on the channels are mediated, at least partially, by changes in the solution properties.

Cite This Study
Fesenko EE, Geletyuk VI, Kazachenko VN, Chemeris NK (1995). Preliminary microwave irradiation of water solutions changes their channel-modifying activity. FEBS Lett 366(1):49-52, 1995.
Show BibTeX
@article{ee_1995_preliminary_microwave_irradiation_of_2080,
  author = {Fesenko EE and Geletyuk VI and Kazachenko VN and Chemeris NK},
  title = {Preliminary microwave irradiation of water solutions changes their channel-modifying activity.},
  year = {1995},
  
  url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7789515/},
}
PubMed: 7789515

Cited By (76 papers)

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Quick Questions About This Study

Yes, research shows microwave radiation can alter water's biological properties. A 1995 Russian study found that water exposed to 42.25 GHz microwaves retained changed characteristics for 10-20 minutes, affecting how cellular ion channels functioned when exposed to the treated water.
Microwave exposure can indirectly affect cell membranes through water changes. Russian researchers found that microwaved water solutions altered the function of calcium-dependent potassium channels in cell membranes, suggesting microwaves create lasting changes in water that impact cellular processes.
Microwave effects in water can last 10-20 minutes after exposure ends. A 1995 study showed that water exposed to millimeter microwaves retained altered properties for this duration, demonstrating what researchers called 'solution memory' of the electromagnetic field exposure.
EMF can change ion channel function indirectly through water modifications. Research found that water pre-exposed to 42.25 GHz microwaves affected calcium-dependent potassium channels in cell membranes, suggesting electromagnetic fields alter water properties that then influence cellular electrical activity.
Scientific evidence suggests water can retain 'memory' of electromagnetic field exposure. A 1995 study found that water exposed to millimeter microwaves maintained altered biological properties for 10-20 minutes after the field was turned off, affecting cellular ion channel function.