The Effect of Radio Frequency (RF) on Proteomics Pattern of Brain Tissue in male Wister Rats

Radiated waves from mobile phones are in the Radio Frequency (RF) range, so those are unable to cause ionization and electron excitation. RF that are produced and emitted from sender antenna on the surface of mobile phone systems, ranges from 30 up to 300 GHz in electromagnetic wave spectrum. There is no complete information about the effects of RF on protein changes. For this purpose, we have examined the effects of RF waves on the changes in protein expression pattern of the brain. In this study, 10 heads of male Wistar rats, weighing between 200-250 g, were exposed to transmission antenna in 100-180 meter distance. Then, proteome of RF900 GHz exposed group and control group were extracted. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis evaluation and proteomics analysis was performed. Results showed altered proteome pattern due to radiation. Tissue exposed to nonstandard waves showed similar pattern of changes in the expression of some proteins, which have key roles in the induction of apoptosis. The expressions of key proteins including Bcl-2-A1, Bid, Neurofilament and Cytochrome Oxidase were decreased. Expression or suppression of apoptosis related proteins such as BCL-2 in rat brain proteome exposed to standard RF900 MHz (at 180m and beyond), can serve as a biomarker of brain activity, memory and sleep. RF radiated from transmission antenna in urban and standard spaces may not be carcinogenic, but, individuals exposed in nonstandard distances to those antennas (less than 180meter) may be at risk.HIGHLIGHTS•Radio Frequency (RF) waves can affect the protein expression profile of the cell.•Exposure to nonstandard RF waves changed the expression profile of apoptosis key proteins.•Changes in the expression of Bcl-2-A1, Bid, Neurofilament and Cytochrome Oxidase under the RF was evident.