Study type: Medical/biological study (experimental study)

Effects of in vivo exposure to GSM-modulated 900 MHz radiation on mouse peripheral lymphocytes med./bio.

By: Gatta L, Pinto R, Ubaldi V, Pace L, Galloni P, Lovisolo GA, Marino C, Pioli C
Published in: Radiat Res 2003; 160 (5): 600-605
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Aim of study (acc. to author)

To evaluate whether daily whole-body exposure of mice to 900 MHz GSM-modulated irradiation could affect spleen lymphocytes. T cells and B cells were stimulated ex vivo using specific monoclonal antibodies or lipopolysaccharides to induce cell proliferation, cytokine production and expression of activation markers.

Endpoint

Exposure

Exposure Parameters
Exposure 1: 900 MHz
Modulation type: pulsed
Exposure duration: repeated daily exposure, 2 h/day for 1, 2 or 4 weeks

Exposure 1

Main characteristics
Frequency 900 MHz
Type
Charakteristic
  • guided field
Exposure duration repeated daily exposure, 2 h/day for 1, 2 or 4 weeks
Modulation
Modulation type pulsed
Additional info

basic GSM modulation
Exposure setup
Exposure source
Setup Mice were housed individually in transparent Perspex jigs with openings to provide air circulation. Four mice were placed in the cell (two above and two below the septum with daily clockwise rotation) with their caudal axis parallel to the direction of propagation.
Additional info A blinded procedure was used for exposure. Sham-exposed mice experienced the same conditions except for the EMF. A control group was kept with minimal handling. A water cooling system was set up with two external metal jackets filled with circulating water fed through a thermostatic bath (20°C) and placed in contact with the bottom walls. The maximum difference between exposed and sham-exposed groups was < 0,5°C.
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
SAR 1 W/kg mean measured and calculated - -
SAR 2 W/kg mean measured and calculated - -
Additional parameter details

Average efficiency for live mice was 0.38 ± 0.09 W/kg/Win.

Measurement and calculation details

The amplified signal was controlled by power meters via bi-directional couplers. The EMF distribution in the cell, with and without objects inside, was assessed using the numerical code HFSS (High Frequency Structure Simulator) and by measurements with network analyser and calibrated E-field probes. Numerical dosimetry was performed using two codes (XFDTD and CST Microwave Studio). Mice were assumed to be cylindrical and homogeneous and weigh 24 g. Experimental dosimetry was done using the power balance method with both homogeneous phantoms and live mice. The total uncertainty was evaluated to be about 20% at 95% confidence.

Exposed system:

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

Investigated system:
Investigated organ system:
Time of investigation:
  • after exposure

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)

The number of spleen cells, the percentages of B cells and T cells, and the distribution of T cell subpopulations were not changed by irradiation. The findings did not show relevant differences in either T lymphocytes or B lymphocytes from animals exposed to an SAR of 1 or 2 W/kg and sham-exposed animals with few exceptions. After 1 week of exposure to 1 or 2 W/kg, an increase in IFN-gamma production was revealed that was not evident when the irradiation was prolonged to 2 or 4 weeks. This indicates that the immune system might have adapted to radiofrequency irradiation as it does with other stressing agents.
In conclusion, the in vivo data indicate that the T cell and B cell compartments were not substantially affected by radiofrequency irradiation and that a clinically relevant effect of the irradiation on the immune system is unlikely to occur.

Study character:

Study funded by

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