Melatonin and a spin-trap compound block radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation-induced DNA strand breaks in rat brain cells.
Lai, H, Singh, NP · 1997
View Original AbstractAntioxidants completely blocked brain DNA damage from cell phone-level radiation, suggesting free radicals drive EMF harm.
Plain English Summary
Researchers exposed rats to microwave radiation similar to cell phone signals and found it caused DNA damage in brain cells. However, when they gave the rats melatonin or another antioxidant compound before and after exposure, the DNA damage was completely prevented. This suggests that radiofrequency radiation damages DNA through free radical formation, and that antioxidants may offer protection.
Why This Matters
This study provides crucial insight into how radiofrequency radiation damages our cells at the molecular level. The fact that two different antioxidants completely blocked the DNA damage strongly suggests that EMF exposure triggers harmful free radical formation in brain tissue. What makes this particularly relevant is the exposure level used - 1.2 W/kg SAR - which falls within the range of modern smartphone use during calls. The research demonstrates that EMF-induced DNA damage isn't inevitable, but rather appears to be mediated by oxidative stress that can potentially be mitigated. While this doesn't mean antioxidants are a cure-all for EMF exposure, it does suggest that maintaining robust antioxidant defenses may be one component of a comprehensive EMF protection strategy alongside reducing exposure.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study.
Study Details
Effects of in vivo microwave exposure on DNA strand breaks, a form of DNA damage, were investigated in rat brain cells.
we found that treatment of rats immediately before and after RFR exposure with either melatonin (1 m...
Data from this study could have important implications for the health effects of RFR exposure.
Show BibTeX
@article{lai_1997_melatonin_and_a_spintrap_1793,
author = {Lai and H and Singh and NP},
title = {Melatonin and a spin-trap compound block radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation-induced DNA strand breaks in rat brain cells.},
year = {1997},
url = {https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9261542/},
}