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EMF Study
(Database last updated on Mar 27, 2024)

ID Number 2490
Study Type In Vivo
Model Immune cell parameters and gene expression was analyzed in rats were exposed at 2.14 GHz for 9 weeks (in utero, lactation and juvenile periods; 20 h/d, 7 d/wk: 0.2 W/kg).
Details

AUTHORS' ABSTRACT: Ohtani et al. 2015 (IEEE #6010): With the widespread use of radio-frequency devices, it is increasingly important to understand the biological effects of the associated electromagnetic fields. Thus, we investigated the effects of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) on T cell responses during development due to the lack of science-based evidence for RF-EMF effects on developmental immune systems. Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to 2.14-GHz wideband code division multiple-access (W-CDMA) RF signals at a whole-body specific absorption rate (SAR) of 0.2 W/kg. Exposures were performed for a total of 9 weeks spanning in utero development, lactation and the juvenile period. Rats were continuously exposed to RF-EMF for 20 h/day, 7 days/week. Comparisons of control and exposed rats using flow cytometry revealed no changes in the numbers of CD4/CD8 T cells, activated T cells or regulatory T cells among peripheral blood cells, splenocytes and thymocytes. Expression levels of 16 genes that regulate the immunological Th1/Th2 paradigm were analyzed using real-time PCR in the spleen and thymus tissues of control and RFEMF exposed rats. Although only the Il5 gene was significantly regulated in spleen tissues, Il4, Il5 and Il23a genes were significantly upregulated in thymus tissues following exposure to RF-EMF. However, ELISAs showed no changes in serum IL-4 protein concentrations. These data indicate no adverse effects of long-term RF-EMF exposure on immune-like T cell populations, T cell activation, or Th1/Th2 balance in developing rats, although significant transcriptional effects were observed.

Findings No Effects
Status Completed With Publication
Principal Investigator Meiji Pharmaceutical U, Tokyo, Japan.
Funding Agency ?????
Country JAPAN
References
  • Ohtani, S et al. J Radiation Research. , (2015) 56:467-474
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