Inhibition of Bacterial Cell Growth by 136 gc Microwaves
S. J. Webb, D. D. Dodds · 1968
Plain English Summary
This 1968 study exposed E. coli bacteria to 136 GHz microwaves for up to 4 hours and found the radiation completely stopped cell division when applied immediately, though it didn't kill the cells. When bacteria were allowed to grow for 90 minutes before exposure, cell division was slowed but not completely halted.
Why This Matters
This pioneering research from 1968 provides early evidence that millimeter wave frequencies can disrupt fundamental biological processes at the cellular level. The 136 GHz frequency used falls within the range now being deployed for 5G networks, making these findings particularly relevant today. The study reveals that microwave radiation doesn't just heat tissues-it can interfere with specific metabolic processes that cells need to divide and grow. While this research used bacteria rather than human cells, it demonstrates that millimeter waves can have profound biological effects at power levels far below what's considered safe by current standards.
Show BibTeX
@article{inhibition_of_bacterial_cell_growth_by_136_gc_microwaves_g5741,
author = {S. J. Webb and D. D. Dodds},
title = {Inhibition of Bacterial Cell Growth by 136 gc Microwaves},
year = {1968},
}