Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields enhance the survival of newborn neurons in the mouse hippocampus.
Podda MV, Leone L, Barbati SA, Mastrodonato A, Li Puma DD, Piacentini R, Grassi C. · 2013
View Original AbstractELF electromagnetic fields enhanced brain cell survival and memory in mice, suggesting complex dose-dependent effects beyond simple harm.
Plain English Summary
Researchers exposed mice to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (the type emitted by power lines and household appliances) for 3.5 hours daily over six days. They found that this exposure actually helped new brain cells survive in the hippocampus, the brain region crucial for learning and memory. The mice also showed improved spatial learning abilities, suggesting these electromagnetic fields might have protective effects on brain function.
Why This Matters
This study presents a fascinating counterpoint to the predominant focus on EMF harm. The science demonstrates that ELF electromagnetic fields can enhance neuronal survival and improve cognitive function in mice. What makes this research particularly intriguing is that it examines neurogenesis, the brain's ability to generate new neurons throughout life, which naturally declines with age and disease. The exposure duration of 3.5 hours daily is comparable to what many people experience from household electrical devices and proximity to power infrastructure. However, we must interpret these findings cautiously. While the results suggest potential therapeutic applications for neurodegenerative diseases, this single animal study doesn't override the substantial body of research documenting EMF risks. The reality is that electromagnetic field effects appear highly dependent on frequency, intensity, duration, and biological context. This research underscores why blanket statements about EMF safety or danger oversimplify a complex scientific landscape that requires nuanced evaluation.
Exposure Information
Specific exposure levels were not quantified in this study. Duration: 3.5 h/day for 6 days
Study Details
Here, we extended our studies to specifically assess the influence of ELFEFs on hippocampal newborn cell survival, which is a very critical issue in adult neurogenesis regulation
Mice were injected with 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) to label newborn cells, and were exposed to E...
The results showed that ELFEF exposure (3.5 h/day for 6 days) enhanced newborn neuron survival as do...
Our results may have clinical implications for the treatment of impaired neurogenesis associated with brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
Show BibTeX
@article{mv_2013_extremely_lowfrequency_electromagnetic_fields_1569,
author = {Podda MV and Leone L and Barbati SA and Mastrodonato A and Li Puma DD and Piacentini R and Grassi C. },
title = {Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields enhance the survival of newborn neurons in the mouse hippocampus.},
year = {2013},
doi = {10.1111/ejn.12465},
url = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ejn.12465},
}