Purpose: To determine the possible biological effects of differently polarised microwave radiation on the chromatin state in human cells.
Materials and methods: Isolated human buccal epithelium cells were irradiated by microwaves of frequency f = 35 GHz and surface power density E = 30 microW/cm(2). The state of chromatin in human cells was determined by methods of light and electron microscopy. The state of cell membranes was evaluated by the method of vital indigo carmine staining.
Results: The microwave-induced condensation of chromatin in human cells is revealed. Degree of microwave-induced condensation depends on the state of polarisation of electromagnetic wave: In some cases left circularly polarised waves induce less effect than linearly polarised radiation. The linearly polarised electromagnetic waves induce cell membrane damage revealed by increase of cell staining. The data obtained are discussed in connection with mechanisms of biological effects of electromagnetic fields.
Conclusion: The data obtained in this work demonstrate important biological effects of monochromatic microwave irradiation at 35 GHz. Low-level microwave irradiation induces chromatin condensation in human cells and damages of cell membranes.