Spatial Learning And Memory Impairment In Rats Exposed To 5G Frequencies: A Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29284/7g3hhp24Keywords:
MHz (Megahertz): Millions of cycles per second (e.g., 900 MHz). GHz (Gigahertz): Billions of cycles per second (e.g., 3.5 GHz, 4.9 GHz). This is the standard unit for 5G frequencies. RF-EMR / RF-EMF: Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Radiation or Fields. SAR (Specific Absorption Rate): Measured in W/kg (Watts per kilogram). it measures how much energy the rat's brain tissue absorbs. MW/cm² (Mill watts per square centimetre): A unit of Power Density used to measure the intensity of the microwave signal. CNS: Central Nervous System (the brain and spinal cord). MWM: Morris Water Maze. The swimming test used to measure Escape Latency (the time it takes a rat to find a hidden platform). OFT: Open field Test CA3: A specific region of the Hippocampus (the part of the brain responsible for memory). mRNA / Transcriptomics: The study of gene expression. This looks at how 5G mightAbstract
The rapid global deployment of fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology has raised considerable public health concerns regarding potential biological effects, particularly on the central nervous system. Existing research on the impact of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on cognitive function has yielded inconsistent results, necessitating a comprehensive review of the current evidence, specifically concerning spatial memory, which is highly dependent on hippocampal integrity.
Impairment Observed: Studies on simultaneous exposure to multiple frequencies, such as 1.5 GHz and 4.3 GHz, have shown significantly prolonged escape latencies in the Morris Water Maze (MWM) and reduced target crossings, indicating impaired spatial memory.
No Significant Effect: Research specifically into the 4.9 GHz band (a common 5G frequency) using the Y-maze and other tests has found that it may induce depression-like behaviour but does not necessarily impair spatial memory.
5G Technology Characteristics: The Fifth Generation (5G) of mobile communication utilizes a wider range of frequencies than previous generations, extending into higher frequencies, specifically 5G instead uses low-band (600–900 MHz), mid-band (GHz), and high-band (mmWave)
5G Deployment Impact: Unlike 4G, 5G utilizes more base stations, beam-forming antennas to focus signals, and higher frequencies, which increases the density of potential exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF).
Public Concern: Increased 5G deployment has generated public concern regarding potential health effects on the central nervous system, particularly due to the proximity of devices to the head.
Focus of Review: Existing reviews often focus on 2G-4G, but this review must focus on 5G-specific frequencies (e.g., 2.4GHz, 3.5 GHz, 4.9 GHz) and their unique modulation techniques.
Objective: This review systematically evaluates existing literature and original research studies to determine whether exposure to 5G frequency RF-EMR induces spatial learning and memory impairments in rat models
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