Nigerian scientist, Adejoke Obajuluwa Ph.D. and her colleagues at Afe Babalola University published a series of 3 new studies on RF-EM radiation effects on biological systems.
In this series of studies, Obajuluwa evaluated cellular damage from abnormal absorption of magnetic and radio waves – and the results are alarming – to say the least. The goal was to assess the biological and neurological-behavioral effects of 2.5-3 GHz band radio-frequency electromagnetic waves (RF-EM) using rats as a model of human health.
Exploring RF-EM effects on biological systems
The three main research objectives:
- Evaluation of cerebral cortex acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, mRNA expression level, locomotor function, and anxiety -linked behavior in exposed male rats.
- Genotoxicity assessment of RF-EM waves on male rats’ brains through DNA fragmentation profiling, DNA fingerprinting, and histopathological analyses.
- Examination of RF-EM waves induced lipid peroxidation, hematological, and key serum and tissue enzyme alterations.
Study 1: RAPD Profiling, DNA Fragmentation, and Histomorphometric Examination in Brains of Wistar Rats Exposed to Indoor 2.5 GHz Wi-Fi Devices Radiation
Objective: Investigate the injurious effect of radiofrequency emissions from installed Wi-Fi devices in the brains of young male rats.
Method: Rats were divided into four equal groups; group 1 served as control while groups 2, 3, and 4 were exposed to 2.5 GHz at intervals of 30, 45, and 60 consecutive days with free access to food and water ad libitum.
Result: Neurobehavioural findings from the exposed rats indicated RF EM waves induced stress-related behaviors and inflammatory responses with increased exposure span.
Study 2: Exposure to radio-frequency electromagnetic waves alters acetylcholinesterase gene expression, exploratory and motor coordination-linked behaviour in male rats
Objective: Investigate the effect of 2.5 GHz band radio-frequency electromagnetic waves (RF-EMF) exposure on cerebral cortex acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and their mRNA expression level as well as locomotor function and anxiety-linked behavior in male rats.
Method: The rats were divided into four groups namely; group 1 was control (without exposure), group 2–4 were exposed to 2.5 GHz radiofrequency waves from an installed WI-FI device for a period of 4, 6, and 8 weeks.
Result: WiFi exposure caused a significant increase in anxiety level and affect locomotor function, a significant decrease in AChE activity with a concomitant increase in AChE mRNA expression level in WiFi-exposed rats when compared with control. The data revealed adverse effects such as mild to severe brain DNA damage with increased exposure indicating its neurotoxicity and link to other brain-related health problems.
Study 3: Exposure to a 2.5 GHz Non-ionizing Electromagnetic Field Alters Hematological Profiles, Biochemical Parameters, and Induces Oxidative Stress in Male Albino Rats
Objective: Evaluate how moderate EMF emissions produced by WiFi signals might affect biochemical and hematological parameters, using rats as a model of human health.
Method: Rats divided into four groups in wire mesh cages 50cm away from the Wi-Fi receptor antenna. Group 1 was control (without exposure), group 2–4 were exposed to 2.5 GHz radiofrequency waves from an installed WI-FI device for a period of 4, 6, and 8 weeks with alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters noted.
Result: RF EM waves induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) leading to increased AChE mRNA levels and activity inhibition, deleterious effects on the brain. ie DNA damage and lipid peroxidation in harvested tissues.
Scientists call for Increased Protection from EMF Exposure
Concern for the negative health effects of EMF exposure is certainly on the rise among scientists and the public. More awareness, funding, and research are crucial to better protect ourselves. On the basis of recent research, a leading group of global scientists (including Adejoke Obajuluwa) expressed their grave concern in an international appeal to the United Nations (UN) to encourage the World Health Organization to lead the development of stronger EMF regulations and better public education on related health risks.
Excerpt from the appeal
“Numerous recent scientific publications have shown that EMF affects living organisms at levels well below most international and national guidelines. Effects include increased cancer risk, cellular stress, increase in harmful free radicals, genetic damages, structural and functional changes of the reproductive system, learning and memory deficits, neurological disorders, and negative impacts on general well-being in humans. Damage goes well beyond the human race, as there is growing evidence of harmful effects to both plant and animal life.”
