When biology meets polarity: Toward a unified framework for sex-dependent responses to magnetic polarity in living systems
Authors not listed · 2026
The review establishes a framework for studying sex-dependent magnetic sensitivity in living systems.
Plain English Summary
The review integrates evidence from magnetobiology and sex-based physiology to propose that hormonal and structural dimorphism may modulate biological responses to magnetic field. It notes that biological effects depend on field intensity, frequency, polarity, and direction, which are often overlooked. The review outlines potential mechanisms involving ion-channel modulation, magnetite orientation, and radical-pair dynamics, and proposes experimental paradigms to test these interactions.
Why This Matters
The human body emits a bioelectromagnetic field primarily generated by the heart's electrical activity, with contributions from the brain, muscles, and peripheral nerves. These endogenous fields can be modulated by external electromagnetic and magnetic influences. Current evidence suggests mechanisms such as modulation of ion channels, radical pair dynamics, and ion cyclotron resonance underlie these interactions. Several studies report sex-specific differences in responses to magnetic exposure, with factors including heart orientation, heart mass, tissue conductivity, hormonal modulation, autonomic balance, and cortical field organization.
Show BibTeX
@article{nelson_i_when_biology_meets_polarity_toward_a_unified_framework_for_sex_dependent_responses_to_magnetic_polarity_in_living_systems_electromagn_biol_med_2026_jan_311_15_doi_1010801536837820262621660_ce4743,
author = {Unknown},
title = {When biology meets polarity: Toward a unified framework for sex-dependent responses to magnetic polarity in living systems},
year = {2026},
doi = {10.1080/15368378.2026.2621660},
}