Searching for the perfect wave: the effect of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields on cells

Int J Mol Sci. 2014 Mar 27;15(4):5366-87. doi: 10.3390/ijms15045366.

Abstract

There is a growing concern in the population about the effects that environmental exposure to any source of "uncontrolled" radiation may have on public health. Anxiety arises from the controversial knowledge about the effect of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure to cells and organisms but most of all concerning the possible causal relation to human diseases. Here we reviewed those in vitro and in vivo and epidemiological works that gave a new insight about the effect of radio frequency (RF) exposure, relating to intracellular molecular pathways that lead to biological and functional outcomes. It appears that a thorough application of standardized protocols is the key to reliable data acquisition and interpretation that could contribute a clearer picture for scientists and lay public. Moreover, specific tuning of experimental and clinical RF exposure might lead to beneficial health effects.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / radiation effects
  • Cell Survival / radiation effects
  • Central Nervous System / radiation effects
  • Electromagnetic Fields / adverse effects*
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Oxidative Stress / radiation effects
  • Public Health
  • Radio Waves / adverse effects*
  • Radiography