Most Cited EMF Studies

Terahertz radiation affects the dynamics of neurons by decreasing membrane area ratio

Ma S, Li S, Wang H, Li Y, Lu C, Li X · 2025

The researchers characterized neuronal morphology using the relative ratio of cytosol to protruding membrane area. Terahertz radiation caused a decrease in this membrane area ratio starting on the first day and persisting through the end of exposure. The radiation also changed neuronal discharge patterns by lowering inter-cluster discharge frequency and action potential amplitude while increasing intra-cluster discharge, and it raised the peak of postsynaptic currents.

Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields facilitate proliferation and functional differentiation in spinal neural stem cells

Tang W, He D, Li X, Feng Y, Xu Y, Hu J, Xu W, Xue L · 2025

Researchers used spinal cord-derived neural stem cells from adult mice to study the effects of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields. ELF-EMFs enhanced cell proliferation and self-renewal by upregulating Sox2 expression. ELF-EMFs activated T-type calcium channels and enhanced calcium currents. Increased intercellular calcium concentration upregulated NeuroG1 and NeuroD1 expression, promoting neuronal differentiation of NSCs and enhancing neurite outgrowth.

Terahertz Irradiation Promotes Angiogenesis in vitro by Enhancing Permeability of the Voltage-Gated Calcium Channel

Li J et al. · 2025

Researchers exposed human umbilical vein endothelial cells to terahertz irradiation at 2.52 THz and 100 mW/cm2. The irradiation did not alter proliferation but significantly enhanced angiogenic capacity. VEGF levels increased in the culture supernatant, and cytoskeleton-associated genes PDXP and SH3BP1 were upregulated. Intracellular calcium concentration markedly increased, and diltiazem mitigated the angiogenic enhancement.

Compound exposure of 2.8 GHz and 9.3 GHz microwave causes learning and memory impairment in rats

Sun L et al. · 2025

Researchers exposed rats sequentially to 2.8 GHz and 9.3 GHz microwaves at an average power density of 10 mW/cm². Morris water maze tests showed that exposure significantly increased average escape latency at 1 and 3 days post-exposure, indicating reduced learning and memory. Cognitive function and hippocampal structure returned to normal by 28 days after exposure.

Melatonin ameliorates RF-EMR-induced reproductive damage by inhibiting ferroptosis through Nrf2 pathway activation

Wang J et al. · 2025

Researchers exposed male mice to 2.45 GHz RF-EMR at 2.5 W/m2 for 8 weeks, which induced ferroptosis and oxidative stress in testicular tissue and reduced sperm quality. Melatonin administration reduced the oxidative damage and ferroptosis in the testes of exposed mice. The protective effect was mediated by melatonin stimulating the Nrf2 signaling pathway through MT1/MT2 receptors, inhibiting ROS production and ferroptosis.

Association between parental occupational exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields and childhood nervous system tumors risk: A meta-analysis

Unknown authors · 2018

Anterior cingulate gyrus acts as a moderator of the relationship between problematic mobile phone use and depressive symptoms in college students

Zou L et al. · 2021

The study recruited 266 students who underwent MRI scanning. VBM analysis showed that grey matter volume in the anterior cingulate gyrus and right fusiform gyrus was inversely correlated with problematic mobile phone use. TBSS analysis found that fractional anisotropy in the body of the corpus callosum was negatively correlated with problematic mobile phone use. The grey matter volume of the anterior cingulate gyrus moderated the relationship between problematic mobile phone use and depressive symptoms, and increased volume could reduce that relationship.

One-time Electromagnetic Irradiation Modifies Stress-sensitive Gene Expressions in Rice Plant

Kundu A et al. · 2021

Researchers exposed 40-day-old Swarnaprabha rice plants to a one-time electromagnetic irradiation at 1837.50 MHz and 2.75 mW/m2 for 2 h 30 min inside a reverberation chamber. The exposure was conducted in a controlled reverberation chamber to ensure a pure electromagnetic environment with deterministic power density.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields Increase Angiogenesis and Improve Cardiac Function After Myocardial Ischemia in Mice

Peng L, Fu C, Liang Z, Zhang Q, Xiong F, Chen L, He C, Wei Q · 2020

Regulation of antioxidant enzymes: a significant role for melatonin

Unknown authors · 2004

The authors review studies documenting melatonin's influence on the activity and expression of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutases, and catalase. Melatonin has been shown to possess genomic actions that regulate the expression of several genes. Melatonin also influences both antioxidant enzyme activity and cellular mRNA levels for these enzymes. The review also analyzes possible mechanisms by which melatonin regulates these enzymes.

Reliable reference genes for gene expression analyses under the hypomagnetic field in a migratory insect

Unknown authors · 2022

Moderate intensity of static magnetic fields can alter the avoidance behavior and fat storage of Caenorhabditis elegans via serotonin

Unknown authors · 2022

Combined effect of pulsed electromagnetic field and sound wave on In vitro and In vivo neural differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells

Choi Y-K et al. · 2017

Researchers investigated the synergistic effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields and sound waves on neural differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in vitro and in vivo. Combined exposure accelerated neural-related genes more than individual exposure to either stimulus. The combined wave up-regulated neural and synaptic proteins in 3-D culture through ERK phosphorylation. In a mouse stroke model, combined wave exposure reduced infarction volume and improved behavioral activity.

Electrical wiring configurations and childhood cancer

Unknown authors · 1979

An excess of electrical wiring configurations suggestive of high current flow was noted near the homes of children who developed cancer compared to control children in Colorado during 1976-1977. The association was strongest for children who had lived their entire lives at the same address and appeared to be dose-related. The correlation did not appear to be explained by neighborhood, street congestion, social class, or family structure.

Oxidative damage in the liver and brain of the rats exposed to frequency-dependent radiofrequency electromagnetic exposure: Biochemical and histopathological evidence

Unknown authors · 2021

Psychological predictors of problem mobile phone use.

Bianchi A, Phillips JG. · 2005

Researchers drew potential predictors from addiction literature to predict problematic mobile phone use from extraversion, self-esteem, neuroticism, gender, and age. They devised and validated the Mobile Phone Problem Use Scale as a reliable self-report instrument against the Addiction Potential Scale and overall mobile phone usage levels. Problem use was a function of age, extraversion, and low self-esteem, but not neuroticism. The study supports community concerns about mobile phone use and identifies groups for intervention campaigns.

Enhancement in the ATP level and antioxidant capacity of Caenorhabditis elegans under continuous exposure to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field for multiple generations

Wang Y, Sun Y, Zhang Z, Li Z, Zhang H, Liao Y, Tang C, Cai P · 2020

Researchers exposed Caenorhabditis elegans continuously to 50 Hz, 3 mT ELF-EMF at 20°C across multiple generations from the egg stage. They measured body length, ATP content, ATP synthase activity, and expression of ATP synthase genes in the 15th generation adult worms. In the 15th generation, body length increased significantly, ATP content increased significantly, ATP synthase activity was significantly enhanced, and the expression of r53.4, hpo-18, atp-5, and atp-3 genes was upregulated. In the 15th generation, SOD activity increased significantly and the expression of sod-1, sod-2, and sod-3 genes was upregulated.

The prevention effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields treatment on senile osteoporosis in vivo via improving the inflammatory bone microenvironment

Zhou J et al. · 2024

Researchers used 24 Sprague Dawley rats, including 16 aged rats divided into an aged control group and a PEMF treatment group, and 8 young rats as a positive control. The PEMF group received 12 weeks of treatment at 40 minutes per day, five days per week, while the other groups received a placebo exposure. PEMF increased bone mineral density of the proximal femur and L5 vertebral body and improved microarchitecture parameters of the proximal tibia and L4 vertebral body. PEMF also decreased serum CTX-1 and increased serum P1CP, indicating a reversal of aging-induced bone turnover. In addition, PEMF suppressed NLRP3, proCaspase1, cleaved Caspase1, IL-1β, and GSDMD-N levels in bone marrow, showing inhibition of NLRP3-mediated inflammation.

Association between cellular-telephone calls and motor vehicle collisions.

Redelmeier DA, Tibshirani RJ · 1997

Researchers used a case-crossover design to study 699 drivers who had cellular telephones and were involved in motor vehicle collisions with substantial property damage but no personal injury. The risk of a collision during a call was four times higher than when not using a telephone, with a relative risk of 4.3. Calls placed within five minutes of the collision had a relative risk of 4.8, while hands-free units offered no safety advantage over hand-held units.

Exposure to long-term evolution radiofrequency electromagnetic fields decreases neuroblastoma cell proliferation via Akt/mTOR-mediated cellular senescence

Kim JH et al. · 2021

Researchers exposed SH-SY5Y neuronal cells to 1760 MHz LTE RF-EMF at 4 W/kg SAR for 4 hours per day over 4 days. The exposure significantly reduced cell growth and proliferation and delayed the cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase. DNA damage and apoptosis were not involved, as γH2AX levels were not markedly altered and the apoptotic pathway was not activated. RF-EMF exposure significantly elevated Akt and mTOR phosphorylation and increased total and phosphorylated p53. Activated p53 increased p21 and p27 expression, inhibited CDK2 and CDK4, and reduced phosphorylated retinoblastoma, decreasing proliferation.

Mobile phone use and stress, sleep disturbances, and symptoms of depression among young adults--a prospective cohort study.

Thomée S, Härenstam A, Hagberg M. · 2011

The study included 4156 young adults aged 20-24 who completed questionnaires at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Mobile phone exposure variables included frequency of use and qualitative aspects such as demands on availability, perceived stressfulness of accessibility, being awakened at night, and personal overuse. Cross-sectionally, high mobile phone use was linked to stress, sleep disturbances, and depression symptoms in both sexes; prospectively, high use predicted sleep disturbances and depression symptoms in men and depression symptoms in women, while overuse predicted stress and sleep disturbances in women and high accessibility stress predicted stress, sleep disturbances, and depression symptoms in both sexes.

Cell phone-induced failures of visual attention during simulated driving.

Strayer DL, Drews FA, Johnston WA. · 2003

Researchers examined the effects of hands-free cell phone conversations on simulated driving. They found that conversations impaired driver's reactions to vehicles braking in front of them. Cell phone conversations also impaired explicit recognition memory for roadside billboards. Eye-tracking data indicated reduced attention to foveal information. The data suggest that driving impairment is mediated, at least in part, by reduced attention to visual inputs.

Comparison of effects of high- and low-frequency electromagnetic fields on proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells

Bai W, Li M, Xu W, Zhang M · 2021

Researchers obtained neural stem cells from rat hippocampus and exposed them to a low-frequency field (5 m T, 50 Hz, 30 min daily) or a high-frequency field (maximum magnetic induction 2.5 T, 40 % MO, 50 Hz, 10 min daily) with a no-field control. Low-frequency EMF also yielded the highest proportion of Tuj-1-positive cells and Tuj-1 mRNA expression, while GFAP-positive cells and GFAP mRNA did not differ among groups. The authors concluded that both EMF types promote proliferation in vitro and that low-frequency EMF accelerates differentiation into neurons.

The Effects of Mobile Phone Radiofrequency Radiation on Cochlear Stria Marginal Cells in Sprague-Dawley Rats

Unknown authors · 2020

The study applied 1,800 MHz mobile phone RFR at 2 and 4 W/kg with a 5-minute on, 10-minute off cycle for 24 hours. They measured DNA damage, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species in marginal cells using Comet assay, flow cytometry, DAPI staining, and a fluorescent probe. No DNA damage or increase in apoptosis was observed, but ROS production was significantly higher in the 4 W/kg group compared with controls.

A pooled analysis of magnetic fields and childhood leukaemia

Unknown authors · 2000

Researchers conducted a pooled analysis based on individual records from nine studies. The analysis included 3203 children with leukaemia and 10 338 control children with estimated residential magnetic field exposures levels < 0.4 μT, and 44 children with leukaemia and 62 control children with exposures ≥ 0.4 μT. For exposures ≥ 0.4 μT the estimated summary relative risk was 2.00 (1.27–3.13), P value = 0.002, while for exposures < 0.4 μT risk estimates were near the no effect level. Adjustment for potential confounding variables did not appreciably change the results. No evidence was found for a wire-code paradox; the highest wire code category showed a relative risk of 1.24 (0.82–1.87).

Bioelectromagnetics 20(2):129-131, 1999

Unknown authors · 1999

Development of realistic high-resolution whole-body voxel models of Japanese adult males and females of average height and weight, and application of models to radio-frequency electromagnetic-field dosimetry.

Nagaoka T et al. · 2004

Researchers created realistic high-resolution whole-body voxel models for Japanese adult males and females of average height and weight using magnetic resonance imaging. The models consist of 2 mm cubic voxels segmented into 51 anatomic regions. The adult female model is the first of its kind worldwide, and both are the first Asian voxel models enabling numerical evaluation of electromagnetic dosimetry at frequencies up to 3 GHz. The paper describes basic SAR characteristics for VHF/UHF bands calculated using the finite-difference time-domain method.

Thymidine decreases the DNA damage and apoptosis caused by tumor-treating fields in cancer cell lines

Jeong H, Jo Y, Yoon M, Hong S · 2021

Researchers exposed human glioblastoma cells and normal HaCaT cells to tumor-treating fields at 120 kHz and 1.2 V/cm after arresting the cell cycle with thymidine. In contrast, thymidine-treated cells did not show changes in colony formation, apoptosis, DNA damage, or gene expression.

Case-control study of childhood cancer and exposure to 60-Hz magnetic fields

Unknown authors · 1988

Researchers studied 356 children diagnosed with cancer between 1976 and 1983 in the Denver area and compared them with controls selected by random digit dialing. Measured magnetic fields under low power use at a 2.0 milligauss cutoff showed an odds ratio of 1.4 for total cancers, with higher odds ratios for leukemias, lymphomas, and soft tissue sarcomas. Wire configuration codes contrasting very high and high versus very low, low, and buried codes yielded an odds ratio of 1.5 for total cancers. Adjusted estimates for measured fields and wire codes did not differ from crude results, indicating an absence of confounding.

The urban decline of the house sparrow (Passer domesticus): A possible link with electromagnetic radiation

Unknown authors · 2007

Researchers conducted point transect sampling at 30 points over 40 visits in Valladolid, Spain, between October 2002 and May 2006, counting sparrows and measuring electric field strength. Mean bird density declined significantly over the study period (P = 0.0037). Bird density was significantly lower in areas with higher electric field strength. A logarithmic regression of bird density against field strength in 0.1 V/m increments yielded a strong negative correlation (R = -0.87, P = 0.0001). The authors concluded that electromagnetic pollution may be responsible for the sparrow decline in European cities, either alone or combined with other factors.

Effects of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy at Different Frequencies on Bone Mass and Microarchitecture in Osteoporotic Mice

Unknown authors · 2021

Radio frequency-induced superoxide accumulation affected the growth and viability of Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Li Q, Tian M, Teng J, Gao P, Tang BQ, Wu H · 2020

Researchers investigated the effect of 2.6-5 MHz RF-EMF at below 0.1 mT on growth and viability of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Growth increased 43.5% at 30 hours but decreased 20.7% at 89 hours. Cell viability improved 70.1% at 8 hours and reduced 33.5% at 28 hours. Superoxide accumulation increased with radiation time, which may explain the inhibition of viability and growth.

Continuous Exposure to 1.7 GHz LTE Electromagnetic Fields Increases Intracellular Reactive Oxygen Species to Decrease Human Cell Proliferation and Induce Senescence

Choi J, Min K, Jeon S, Kim N, Pack JK, Song K · 2020

Researchers exposed multiple human cell types, including adipose-derived stem cells, liver cancer stem cells, HeLa, SH-SY5Y, and IMR-90 fibroblasts, to 1.7 GHz LTE RF-EMF continuously for 72 hours at 1 and 2 SAR. Cell proliferation decreased in all cell types, with a stronger effect at 2 SAR than at 1 SAR and a milder effect in adipose-derived stem cells. Exposure did not cause DNA double-strand breaks or apoptosis but caused a slight G1-to-S cell-cycle delay, and senescence appeared in ASCs and Huh7 cells at 2 SAR, accompanied by increased intracellular ROS that mediated the anti-proliferative effect.

Brain tumour risk in relation to mobile telephone use: results of the INTERPHONE international case-control study.

The INTERPHONE Study Group. · 2010

An interview-based case-control study with 2708 glioma and 2409 meningioma cases and matched controls was conducted in 13 countries using a common protocol. Ever regular mobile phone use was associated with reduced odds ratios for glioma (OR 0.81, 95% CI 0.70-0.94) and meningioma (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.68-0.91), possibly reflecting participation bias. No elevated odds ratio was observed 10 or more years after first phone use for either tumor type. In the highest decile of recalled cumulative call time (≥1640 hours), the odds ratio for glioma was 1.40 (95% CI 1.03-1.89) and for meningioma was 1.15 (95% CI 0.81-1.62), but the authors noted implausible values of reported use in this group.

Magnetite biomineralization in the human brain

Unknown authors · 1992

The study used an ultrasensitive superconducting magnetometer to detect ferromagnetic material in various human brain tissues. High-resolution electron microscopy identified the minerals as belonging to the magnetite-maghemite family, with crystal morphologies resembling those produced by magnetotactic bacteria and fish. The measurements imply at least 5 million single-domain crystals per gram in most brain tissues and over 100 million per gram in the pia and dura.

Neuroprotective Effect of Low Frequency-Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields in Ischemic Stroke

Urnukhsaikhan E, Mishig-Ochir T, Kim S-C, Park J-K, Seo Y-K · 2017

Researchers exposed C57B6 mice to LF-PEMF at 60 Hz and 10 mT after inducing ischemic stroke via photothrombotic occlusion. They measured the BDNF/TrkB/Akt signaling pathway, pro-apoptotic and pro-survival protein and gene expressions, inflammatory mediators, and performed behavioral tests. LF-PEMF treatment promoted activation of the BDNF/TrkB/Akt signaling pathway. Pro-survival proteins increased significantly, while pro-apoptotic proteins and inflammatory mediators decreased. The results demonstrated a neuroprotective effect of LF-PEMF exposure after ischemic stroke in mice during recovery.

Health Council of The Netherlands: no need to change from SAR to time-temperature relation in electromagnetic fields exposure limits

Unknown authors · 2011

The Health Council of the Netherlands examined whether exposure limits should shift from specific absorption rate to a maximum allowable temperature increase. The council evaluated this change across six criteria including consistency, applicability, and causality. The council concluded that changing the dosimetric quantity would not advance the debate on non-thermal effects from long-duration, low-intensity exposure. The council recommended keeping the current system of basic restrictions and reference levels expressed as SAR and in V/m or µT.

Magnetic fields and cancer in children residing near Swedish high-voltage power lines

Unknown authors · 1993

A case-control study examined cancer incidence in children who lived within 300 meters of 220 and 400 kV power lines in Sweden from 1960 to 1985. Researchers identified 142 cancer cases, including 39 leukemia and 33 central nervous system tumor cases, and selected 558 controls from the study base. For childhood leukemia, the relative risk was 2.7 (95% CI 1.0-6.3) at 0.2 microtesla and 3.8 (95% CI 1.4-9.3) at 0.3 microtesla, with significant trends. No association was found for central nervous system tumors, lymphoma, or all childhood cancers combined.

(2019) Social media use and adolescent mental health: Findings from the UK Millennium Cohort Study

Kelly Y et al. · 2019

Researchers analyzed data from 10,904 14-year-olds in the UK Millennium Cohort Study using multivariate regression and path models. The association between social media use and depressive symptoms was larger for girls than for boys. Compared with 1–3 h of daily use, 3 to <5 h was linked to a 26% increase in scores for girls and 21% for boys, while ≥5 h was linked to a 50% increase for girls and 35% for boys. Greater social media use related to online harassment, poor sleep, low self-esteem and poor body image, which in turn related to higher depressive symptom scores.

Modulation of Low-Frequency Pulsed Magnetic Field on Hippocampal Neural Oscillation in Depression Rats

Wang L, Yang J, Wang F, Zhou P, Wang K , Ming D · 2018

Researchers established a depression rat model using chronic unpredictable stress. Rats were exposed to low-frequency pulsed magnetic field at 1 Hz and 20 mT for 14 days, one hour per day. They assessed behavior with the elevated plus-maze test and recorded hippocampal local field potentials. Analysis used sample entropy, phase locked value, and phase-amplitude coupling modulation index. LFPMF significantly relieved depression-like behaviors and improved identical-frequency synchronization and theta-gamma phase-amplitude coupling.

Modulating effects of on-line low frequency electromagnetic fields on hippocampal long-term potentiation in young male Sprague- Dawley rat

Dong L, Zheng Y, Li ZY, Li G, Lin L · 2018

Researchers developed a novel patch-clamp setup for on-line LF-EMF stimulation. They applied magnetic fields of 0.5, 1, and 2 mT at 15, 50, and 100 Hz to study effects on synaptic plasticity. The slope of field excitatory postsynaptic potentials decreased significantly under priming on-line uninterrupted or pulsed sinusoidal LF-EMF stimulation. The study investigated whether LF-EMFs can induce long-term potentiation in male Sprague-Dawley rat hippocampal slices in vitro. Results showed that 100 Hz pulsed sinusoidal LF-EMFs acts only as a modulator, not an inducer of long-term potentiation.

Effect of cell phone usage on semen analysis in men attending infertility clinic: an observational study.

Agarwal A, Deepinder F, Sharma RK, Ranga G, Li J. · 2008

Three hundred sixty-one men undergoing infertility evaluation were divided into four groups based on daily cell phone use: no use, less than 2 hours, 2 to 4 hours, and more than 4 hours. Comparisons of mean sperm count, motility, viability, and normal morphology among the four groups were statistically significant. The decrease in sperm parameters was dependent on the duration of daily exposure to cell phones and independent of the initial semen quality.

Increased breast cancer risk among women who work predominantly at night

Unknown authors · 2001

Researchers conducted a nationwide population-based case-control study of breast cancer risk among 30- to 54-year-old Danish women who worked predominantly at night. Employment histories were reconstructed back to 1964 for 7035 women with breast cancer and their individually matched controls from a nationwide pension scheme. The odds ratio for breast cancer among women who worked at night for at least half a year was 1.5 (95% confidence interval, 1.2 to 1.7), with a tendency toward higher odds with longer duration of nighttime employment.

A pooled analysis of magnetic fields, wire codes, and childhood leukemia. Childhood Leukemia-EMF Study Group

Unknown authors · 2000

Association between electronic device usage and sperm quality parameters in healthy men screened as potential sperm donors

Chen H-G et al. · 2022

Associations Between a Polymorphism in the Rat 5-HT1A Receptor Gene Promoter Region (rs198585630) and Cognitive Alterations Induced by Microwave Exposure

Li H et al. · 2022

Cellular-telephone use and brain tumors.

Inskip PD et al. · 2001

Researchers conducted a case-control study of intracranial tumors between 1994 and 1998. They enrolled 782 patients with glioma, meningioma, or acoustic neuroma and 799 controls. Cumulative use of more than 100 hours showed relative risks of 0.9 for glioma, 0.7 for meningioma, 1.4 for acoustic neuroma, and 1.0 for all tumors combined. No higher risks were seen for use of 60 or more minutes per day or regular use for five or more years. Tumors did not occur more often on the side of the head where the telephone was typically used.

Single- and double-strand DNA breaks in rat brain cells after acute exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation

Lai H, Singh NP · 1996

Researchers investigated single- and double-strand DNA breaks in rat brain cells after acute exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation. Rats received acute 2-hour exposure to pulsed or continuous-wave 2450-MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation, producing a whole-body average-specific absorption rate of 1.2 W/kg. An increase in both types of DNA strand breaks was observed after exposure to either the pulsed or continuous-wave radiation, with no significant difference between the two forms.

Profiles in driver distraction: effects of cell phone conversations on younger and older drivers.

Strayer DL, Drews FA. · 2004

The study examined the effects of hands-free cell phone conversations on simulated driving performance in younger and older adults. Compared to driving alone, cell phone use made reactions 18% slower, increased following distance by 12%, and lengthened speed recovery after braking by 17%. There was a twofold increase in rear-end collisions when drivers were conversing on a cell phone.

Exposure to residential electric and magnetic fields and risk of childhood leukemia

Unknown authors · 1991

Researchers conducted a case-control study of 232 cases and 232 controls aged birth to 10 years in Los Angeles County from 1980 to 1987. Magnetic field measurements were taken in the child's bedroom over 24 hours or longer for 164 cases and 144 controls, and spot measurements for 140 cases and 109 controls. No clear associations were seen between leukemia risk and measured magnetic or electric fields. An association was observed between the Denver Wertheimer-Leeper wiring configuration and childhood leukemia risk with an odds ratio of 2.15. Cases were more likely than controls to report use of several appliances that produce high electric and magnetic fields.

Cognitive load and detection thresholds in car following situations: safety implications for using mobile (cellular) telephones while driving.

Lamble D, Kauranen T, Laakso M, Summala H · 1999

Nineteen participants aged 20 to 29 years drove at 80 km/h, 50 m behind a lead car on a 30 km motorway section. The lead car decelerated at 0.47 m/s² while participants either looked ahead, dialed numbers, or performed a memory and addition task. Detection ability was impaired by about 0.5 s in brake reaction time and almost 1 s in time-to-collision during the non-visual task. This impairment was similar to when drivers divided visual attention by dialing numbers.

Mobile phone radiation induces reactive oxygen species production and DNA damage in human spermatozoa in vitro.

De Iuliis GN, Newey RJ, King BV, Aitken RJ. · 2009

Researchers exposed purified human spermatozoa in vitro to radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation tuned to 1.8 GHz across a range of specific absorption rates from 0.4 W/kg to 27.5 W/kg. As the SAR increased, sperm motility and vitality were significantly reduced, while mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and DNA fragmentation were significantly elevated (P<0.001). The researchers also observed highly significant relationships between SAR, the oxidative DNA damage biomarker 8-OH-dG, and DNA fragmentation after exposure.

Biological effects from electromagnetic field exposure and public exposure standards

Unknown authors · 2008

The review notes increasing public concern about health risks from ELF and RF fields. It lists a wide range of health endpoints associated with ELF and/or RF, including childhood leukaemia, brain tumours, and neurodegenerative diseases. The BioInitiative Report concludes that a reasonable suspicion of risk exists and recommends new lower exposure limits for ELF and precautionary limits for RF. Current microwave exposure guidelines for mobile phones are 1.6 W/Kg in the US and 2 W/Kg in Europe, and the authors argue a biologically based guideline is warranted because mobile phone use is linked to increased brain tumour risk after 10 years.

Intermediate frequency magnetic field generated by a wireless power transmission device does not cause genotoxicity in vitro

Shi D, Zhu C, Lu R, Mao S, Qi Y · 2014

Lymphomas in E mu-Pim1 transgenic mice exposed to pulsed 900 MHZ electromagnetic fields.

Repacholi et al. · 1997

Researchers exposed female E mu-Pim1 transgenic mice to pulsed 900 MHz fields for two 30-minute periods per day for up to 18 months. Lymphoma risk was significantly higher in exposed mice than in controls (OR = 2.4, P = 0.006). Follicular lymphomas were the major contributor to the increased tumor incidence.

Non-thermal activation of the hsp27/p38MAPK stress pathway by mobile phone radiation in human endothelial cells: Molecular mechanism for cancer- and blood-brain barrier-related effects.

Leszczynski D, Joenväärä S, Reivinen J, Kuokka R · 2002

Researchers exposed human endothelial EA.hy926 cells to 900 MHz GSM mobile phone radiation for 1-hour and observed changes in phosphorylation of many proteins. The exposure transiently increased phosphorylation of hsp27 and altered expression levels of hsp27 and p38MAPK, and this phosphorylation increase was prevented by a p38MAPK inhibitor. The culture temperature remained at 37 +/- 0.3 degrees C throughout the exposure, confirming non-thermal effects. The authors hypothesized that mobile phone radiation-induced activation of hsp27 may facilitate brain cancer by inhibiting the cytochrome c/caspase-3 apoptotic pathway and increase blood-brain barrier permeability by stabilizing endothelial cell stress fibers.

Electromagnetic effects - From cell biology to medicine

Unknown authors · 2009

Melatonin-depleted blood from premenopausal women exposed to light at night stimulates growth of human breast cancer xenografts in nude rats

Unknown authors · 2005

Researchers exposed rats bearing human breast cancer xenografts to increasing intensities of white fluorescent light during the dark phase and collected blood from premenopausal women at daytime, nighttime, or after 90 minutes of bright light at night. Tumors perfused with nocturnal melatonin-rich blood showed markedly suppressed proliferative activity and linoleic acid uptake compared with tumors perfused with daytime melatonin-deficient blood. Tumors perfused with blood collected after ocular light-at-night exposure exhibited the daytime pattern of high tumor proliferative activity, and the tumor growth response to light during darkness was intensity dependent.

Acute low-intensity microwave exposure increases DNA single-strand breaks in rat brain cells

Lai H, Singh NP · 1995

Researchers measured DNA single-strand breaks in brain cells of rats acutely exposed to low-intensity 2450 MHz microwaves, using an alkaline microgel electrophoresis method. After 2 hours of exposure to pulsed microwaves, no significant effect was observed immediately after exposure, but a dose rate-dependent increase in DNA single-strand breaks was found in brain cells at 4 hours postexposure. In rats exposed for 2 hours to continuous-wave 2450 MHz microwaves at 1.2 W/kg SAR, increases in brain cell DNA single-strand breaks were observed both immediately and at 4 hours postexposure.

Microarray profiling of LncRNA expression in the testis of pubertal mice following morning and evening exposure to 1800 MHz radiofrequency fields

Qin F, Cao H, Feng C, Zhu T, Zhu B, Zhang J, Tong J, Pei H · 2021

Researchers exposed four-week-old mice to 1800 MHz RF at 0.50 W/kg SAR in the morning and evening each day for three weeks. They measured pathological changes and functional indices in the testes. RF exposure reduced testicular weight, daily sperm production, and testosterone secretion. Morning exposure was associated with 615 differentially expressed lncRNAs, while evening exposure was associated with 183. Morning RF exposure lncRNAs were correlated with pathways including Fanconi syndrome, metabolic processes, cell cycle, DNA damage, and DNA replication.

Pall (2013) EMFs act via activation of voltage-gated calcium channels to produce beneficial or adverse effects

Unknown authors · 2013

Effects of Long-Term Exposure to L-Band High-Power Microwave on the Brain Function of Male Mice

Unknown authors · 2021

Forty-eight male ICR mice were exposed to L-HPM at power densities of 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 W/m² and brain function was examined at different time periods after exposure. Brain morphology was examined using HE and TUNEL staining, and cholinergic markers, oxidative stress markers, and c-fos expression were evaluated. Exposure to L-HPM at 1.5 W/m² can cause generalized injuries in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex, including cell apoptosis, cholinergic dysfunction, and oxidative damage. The deleterious effects were closely related to power density and exposure time, indicating that long-term and high-power density exposure may be detrimental to the nervous system.

The Time-Dependence of Three Different Modes of ELF-EMF Stimulation on LTP at Schaffer Collateral-CA1 Synapses

Unknown authors · 2021

Researchers exposed hippocampal slices from Sprague-Dawley rats to 15 Hz/2 mT ELF-EMF in three modes (sinusoidal, single-frequency pulse, and rhythm pulse) for durations of 10, 20, 40, and 60 seconds. LTP was induced with 100 Hz high-frequency stimulation and measured via fEPSP recordings for 60 minutes using multi-electrode arrays after a 20-minute baseline. Compared to controls, all three ELF-EMF modes decreased LTP, and the inhibition increased with longer exposure durations. The continuous sinusoidal field produced the largest inhibitory effect, while the pulsed and rhythm-pulsed fields had similar effects.

Transcranial Magneto- Acoustic Stimulation Improves Neuroplasticity in Hippocampus of Parkinson's Disease Model Mice

Wang Y, Feng L, Liu S, Zhou X, Yin T, Liu Z, Yang Z · 2019

Magnetic-field-induced DNA strand breaks in brain cells of the rat.

Lai H, Singh NP · 2004

Researchers investigated how magnetic field exposure affected brain cell DNA in rats. Exposure to a 60-Hz magnetic field at 0.01 mT for 24 hours caused a significant increase in DNA single- and double-strand breaks, and prolonging the exposure to 48 hours caused a larger increase. Acute magnetic field exposure also increased apoptosis and necrosis of brain cells in the rat.

Genetic damage in subjects exposed to radiofrequency radiation

Unknown authors · 2008

The paper reviews cytogenetic biomonitoring studies of humans exposed to radiofrequency radiation. Most reviewed studies report increased frequencies of genetic damage such as chromosomal aberrations in lymphocytes or buccal cells of exposed individuals. Radiation dosimetry was lacking in all papers, and some investigations had more severe flaws.

Microstructure abnormalities in adolescents with internet addiction disorder.

Yuan K et al. · 2011

Researchers examined brain structure in 18 adolescents with internet addiction disorder using voxel-based morphometry and diffusion tensor imaging. Voxel-based morphometry showed reduced gray matter volume in the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, supplementary motor area, orbitofrontal cortex, cerebellum, and left rostral anterior cingulate cortex. Diffusion tensor imaging revealed increased fractional anisotropy in the left posterior limb of the internal capsule and decreased fractional anisotropy in the right parahippocampal gyrus white matter.

Effect of cellular telephone conversations and other potential interference on reaction time in a braking response.

Consiglio W, Driscoll P, Witte M, Berg WP. · 2003

The experiment studied the effect of phone conversations and other potential interference on reaction time in a braking response. Twenty-two participants used a laboratory station that simulated foot activity in driving. Mean reaction time was measured across five conditions: control, listening to a radio, conversing with a passenger, conversing using a hand-held phone, and conversing using a hands-free phone. Conversation, whether in-person or via cellular phone, slowed reaction time, while listening to the radio did not.

Immune response of mollusk Onchidium struma to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF, 50 Hz) exposure based on immune-related enzyme activity and De novo transcriptome analysis

Zhang M et al. · 2020

Electromagnetic fields, such as those from mobile phones, alter regional cerebral blood flow and sleep and waking EEG.

HuberR et al. · 2002

Isoflurane preconditioning ameliorates electromagnetic pulse-induced neural damage by shifting microglia polarization toward anti-inflammatory phenotype via upregulation of SOCS1

Zhang X, Lv M, Zhu X, Tian L, Li J, Shao Y, Gao C, Sun X · 2019

Researchers exposed rats to electromagnetic pulse with or without isoflurane preconditioning and analyzed brain samples for microglia markers and inflammatory mediators. They also used SOCS1 siRNA in cultured microglia cells to test SOCS1's role. Electromagnetic pulse exposure made microglia pro-inflammatory, increased inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, activated the TLR4 pathway, and caused neuronal death. Isoflurane preconditioning reversed these changes and switched microglia to an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Blocking SOCS1 eliminated the protective effect of isoflurane preconditioning.

Environmental and occupational causes of cancer: new evidence 2005-2007

Unknown authors · 2008

Handheld cellular telephone use and risk of brain cancer.

Muscat JE et al. · 2000

Researchers conducted a case-control study in five US academic medical centers between 1994 and 1998 using a structured questionnaire, enrolling 469 adults with primary brain cancer and 422 matched controls. The median monthly hours of use were 2.5 for cases and 2.2 for controls, and the multivariate odds ratio for regular use was 0.85 (95% CI, 0.6-1.2). No association was observed according to duration of use (P = .54), and cerebral tumors occurred more often on the same side as phone use (26 vs 15 cases; P = .06) while temporal lobe tumors showed the opposite pattern (9 vs 5 cases; P = .33).

50-Hz extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields 185 enhance cell proliferation and DNA damage: possible involvement of a redox mechanism

Wolf FI et al. · 2005

Researchers exposed HL-60 leukemia cells, Rat-1 fibroblasts, and WI-38 diploid fibroblasts to 0.5-1.0 mT 50-Hz ELF-EMF for 24-72 hours. The treatment caused a dose-dependent increase in proliferation rate, about 30% after 72 hours at 1.0 mT. DNA damage increased dose-dependently with peaks at 24 and 72 hours. Pretreatment with the antioxidant alpha-tocopherol prevented both the proliferation increase and DNA damage, implicating redox mechanisms.

Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields Enhances Melanin Synthesis by Activating the P53 Signaling Pathway in Mel-Ab Melanocytes

Kim JH et al. · 2024

Researchers exposed Mel-Ab melanocytes to 1760 MHz RF-EMF at a specific absorption rate of 4.0 W/kg for 4 hours per day over 4 days. Exposure significantly increased melanin production, indicating enhanced skin pigmentation. Phosphorylation of CREB and expression of MITF were significantly increased after RF-EMF exposure. Tyrosinase expression increased significantly but its activity did not change. Expression of p53 and MC1R also increased significantly.

Osteogenic differentiation of amniotic epithelial cells: synergism of pulsed electromagnetic field and biochemical stimuli

Wang Q et al. · 2014

Researchers isolated amniotic epithelial cells from human placenta and exposed them to pulsed electromagnetic field and/or osteo-induction medium for 21 days. PEMF alone or osteo-induction medium alone induced osteogenic differentiation as shown by expression of alkaline phosphatase and osteocalcin. The combination of PEMF and osteo-induction medium had synergistic effects on osteogenic differentiation. Gene expression of BMP-2, Runx2, β-catenin, Nrf2, Keap1, and integrinβ1 was up-regulated during osteogenic differentiation.

Effect of a 915-MHz simulated mobile phone signal on cognitive function in man.

Preece et al. · 1999

Thirty-six participants completed a randomized three-way crossover study with two training sessions and three test sessions. The only cognitive measure that changed was choice reaction time, which became faster, while word, number, picture recall and spatial memory were unchanged.

Exposure to 50Hz- sinusoidal electromagnetic field induces DNA damage-independent autophagy

Shen Y, Xia R, Jiang H, Chen Y, Hong L, Yu Y, Xu Z, Zeng Q · 2016

Researchers exposed Chinese Hamster Lung cells to a 0.4mT 50Hz sinusoidal EMF for 30 minutes or 24 hours. When autophagy was blocked with Bafilomycin A1, cell apoptosis increased, while EMF-induced autophagy protected cells from severe adverse consequences.

Review of the epidemiologic literature on EMF and Health

Unknown authors · 2001

They concluded that study quality has improved and recent studies on childhood leukemia and occupational cancer approach the limits of feasible size and rigor. The review found no chronic disease with an established etiological relation to EMF. Childhood leukemia showed the strongest association with postnatal exposures above 0.4 microtesla (relative risk 2.0, 95% CI 1.27-3.13), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis showed an association with occupational exposure that could be due to confounding.

50-Hz electromagnetic environment and the incidence of childhood tumors in Stockholm County

Unknown authors · 1986

Impact of radio frequency electromagnetic radiation on DNA integrity in the male germline.

Aitken RJ, Bennetts LE, Sawyer D, Wiklendt AM, King BV. · 2005

Researchers exposed mice to 900 MHz RFEMR at a specific absorption rate of approximately 90 mW/kg inside a waveguide for 7 days at 12 h per day. Sperm number, morphology, and vitality were not significantly affected by the exposure. However, detailed DNA analysis using QPCR revealed statistically significant damage to both the mitochondrial genome and the nuclear beta-globin locus.

SAR calculations in an anatomically realistic model of the head for mobile communication transceivers at 900 MHz and 1.8 GHz.

Dimbylow PJ, Mann SM. · 1994

Researchers built a mathematical model of the human head from MRI slices and used finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) calculations to estimate the specific energy absorption rate (SAR) at 900 MHz and 1.8 GHz. The generic transceiver was represented by a quarter-wavelength monopole on a metal box, and three placement geometries were examined: vertical in front of the eye, and vertical and horizontal at the side of the ear. For the most typical position at the side of the head, the maximum SAR averaged over 10 g of tissue was 2.1 and 3.0 W kg(-1) per W of radiated power at 900 MHz and 1.8 GHz. Placement in front of the eye gave values of 3.1 and 4.6 W kg(-1) per W averaged over 10 g of tissue at 900 MHz and 1.8 GHz.

Research on the Correlation between BDNF Val76Met Polymorphism and Susceptibility to Changes of Cognitive Function in Rats Induced by Microwave Radiation

Zhang M et al. · 2025

The relationship between cell phone use, physical and sedentary activity, and cardiorespiratory fitness in a sample of U.S. college students.

Lepp A, Barkley JE, Sanders GJ, Rebold M, Gates P. · 2013

Participants were interviewed about physical activity and cell phone use, had body composition and self-efficacy assessed, and completed a progressive treadmill test to measure peak oxygen consumption. Hierarchical regression was used to assess the relationship between cell phone use and cardiorespiratory fitness after controlling for sex, self-efficacy, and percent body fat. Cell phone use was significantly and negatively related to cardiorespiratory fitness independent of sex, self-efficacy, and percent body fat.

Near-Null Magnetic Field Suppresses Fruit Growth in Arabidopsis

Xu C, Feng S, Yu Y, Zhang Y, Wei S · 2021

Researchers grew wild-type Arabidopsis and cry1/cry2 double mutants in a near-null magnetic field under blue light to test the role of cryptochrome in fruit growth. Fruit growth was suppressed in wild-type plants but not in the cry1/cry2 mutants under the near-null magnetic field. Gibberellin levels (GA4, GA9, GA34, GA51) were significantly lower in wild-type fruits under near-null magnetic field compared to geomagnetic controls, but unchanged in mutants. Expression of GA20ox and GA3ox genes was downregulated in wild-type fruits but not in mutants, while GA2ox and GA signaling genes were unaffected.

Exposure to pulsed high-frequency electromagnetic field during waking affects human sleep EEG.

Huber R et al. · 2000

Researchers exposed healthy young male subjects for 30 minutes to EMF at 900 MHz and a spatial peak specific absorption rate of 1 W/kg during the waking period before sleep. Compared with a sham exposure control condition, EEG spectral power during non-rapid eye movement sleep was increased, with the maximum rise in the 9.75-11.25 Hz and 12.5-13.25 Hz bands during the initial part of sleep. The researchers concluded that the changes of brain function induced by pulsed high-frequency EMF outlast the exposure period.

Use of cellular telephones and the risk for brain tumours: A case-control study.

Hardell et al. · 1999

Researchers conducted a case-control study with 209 brain tumour cases and 425 controls in Sweden. Overall cellular telephone use yielded an odds ratio of 0.98 with a 95% confidence interval. Separate analyses for the digital GSM system and the analogue NMT system gave odds ratios of 0.97 and 0.94 respectively. A non-significantly increased risk was found for tumours in the temporal or occipital lobe on the same side as phone use. The increased risk was only seen for use of the NMT system.

Effects of static magnetic fields at the cellular level

Unknown authors · 2005

(2009) Cell phones and brain tumors: a review including long-term epidemiologic data

Khurana et al · 2009

Subjective symptoms, sleeping problems, and cognitive performance in subjects living near mobile phone base stations.

Hutter HP, Moshammer H, Wallner P, Kundi M. · 2006

Researchers conducted a cross-sectional study of 365 randomly selected inhabitants living near 10 mobile phone base stations in urban and rural areas. High-frequency electromagnetic field strength was measured in the bedrooms of 336 households, and several cognitive tests, wellbeing, and sleep quality were also assessed. Total HF-EMF exposure was far below recommended levels, with a maximum of 4.1 mW/m2, and average power density was 0.05 mW/m2 in the rural area and 0.02 mW/m2 in the urban area. Some symptoms showed a significant relation to measured power density, headaches most strongly, while sleep quality showed no significant effect.

Pulsed high-frequency electromagnetic field affects human sleep and sleep electroencephalogram.

Borbely et al. · 1999

Researchers exposed healthy young subjects during an entire night-time sleep episode to a 900 MHz electromagnetic field at a maximum specific absorption rate of 1 W/kg. The exposure schedule consisted of alternating 15-min on-15-min off intervals. Compared with a control night with sham exposure, the amount of waking after sleep onset was reduced from 18 to 12 min, and EEG spectral power in non-rapid eye movement sleep was increased. The researchers concluded that pulsed high-frequency EMF in the range of radiotelephones may promote sleep and modify the sleep EEG.

Effects of electromagnetic radiation from a cellular phone on human sperm motility: an in vitro study.

Erogul O et al. · 2006

Researchers enrolled 27 men and divided each semen sample into two parts, exposing one to 900 MHz cellular phone radiation. Exposure caused a subtle decrease in rapid and slow progressive sperm movement and an increase in non-motile sperm. Sperm concentration did not differ significantly between exposed and unexposed samples.

Long-term mobile phone use and brain tumor risk.

Lonn S, Ahlbom A, Hall P, Feychting M. · 2005

Effects of pulsed high-frequency electromagnetic fields on human sleep.

Mann, K, Roschke, J · 1996

Researchers investigated the influence of pulsed high-frequency electromagnetic fields from digital mobile radio telephones on sleep in healthy humans. They found a hypnotic effect that shortened sleep onset latency and a REM suppressive effect that reduced REM sleep duration and percentage. Spectral analysis showed qualitative alterations of the EEG signal during REM sleep with increased spectral power density.

Exposure of the dorsal root ganglion in rats to pulsed radiofrequency currents activates dorsal horn lamina I and II neurons.

Higuchi Y et al. · 2002

Researchers performed a left-sided hemilaminectomy in adult Sprague-Dawley rats to expose the C6 dorsal root ganglion. Rats received pulsed radiofrequency, continuous radiofrequency, or sham treatment with the electrode on the ganglion for 120 seconds. Pulsed radiofrequency significantly increased cFOS-immunoreactive neurons in the superficial dorsal horn laminae three hours after treatment, while continuous radiofrequency did not. The authors concluded that pulsed radiofrequency activates pain-processing neurons in the dorsal horn without tissue heating.

Engrossed in conversation: The impact of cell phones on simulated driving performance.

Beede KE, Kass SJ. · 2006

Thirty-six college students with a median of 6 years of driving experience completed a driving history questionnaire and four simulated driving scenarios. The distraction tasks consisted of responding to a signal detection task and engaging in a simulated cell phone conversation. Driving performance was measured in four categories: traffic violations, driving maintenance, attention lapses, and response time. Performance was significantly impacted in all four categories when drivers were concurrently talking on a hands-free phone.

Cellular phones and traffic accidents: an epidemiological approach.

Violanti JM, Marshall JR · 1996

Talking more than 50 minutes per month on a cellular phone in a vehicle was associated with a 5.59-fold increased risk of a traffic accident. Combined use of cellular phones with motor and cognitive activities while driving was also associated with increased accident risk. The authors cautioned that the study had a small sample, showed only statistical associations, and did not conclude that talking on cellular phones while driving is inherently dangerous.

Dialling and driving: factors influencing intentions to use a mobile phone while driving.

Walsh SP, White KM, Hyde MK, Watson B. · 2008

Attitudes consistently predicted intentions to drive while using a mobile phone, and pressure from significant others also determined some phone use intentions. Perceptions of control had less support as a predictor, and risk was not generally predictive of safer driving intentions. Different factors influenced each form of mobile phone use while driving, suggesting a multi-strategy approach is needed. The researchers examined predictors for calling and text messaging in four scenarios varying vehicle speed and time pressure.

Pulsing Electromagnetic Fields Induce Cellular Transcription

Unknown authors · 1983

Researchers tested a repetitive single pulse and a repetitive pulse train on transcription in dipteran salivary gland cells. The single pulse increased the specific activity of messenger RNA after 15 and 45 minutes of exposure. The pulse train increased specific activity only after 45 minutes of exposure.

Biological effects from exposure to electromagnetic radiation emitted by cell tower base stations and other antenna arrays

Levitt BB, Lai H · 2010