900 MHz Electromagnetic Fields Induce Microbiota Dysbiosis and Adaptive Immune System Disorders in Juvenile Rats

Abstract

Although cell phones and electronic devices are now integral parts of modern life (especially for young people), the radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) emitted by these devices is a potential health hazard. The effects of RF-EMFs have been assessed in various fields, including epidemiology and neurology. However, there are few published data on the possible effects of RF-EMFs on immune cells; this is surprising, given the importance of the immune system’s role in defending the body against infections and cancer. To assess whether chronic RF-EMF exposure has harmful effects on the immune system in juvenile rats, rats were exposed or not to 900MHz RF-EMF 23h/day during 5 weeks. Hematological, cytometric and bacteriological assays were used to probe differences between exposed and non-exposed tissues. Exposure of rats to 900 MHz RF-EMF was associated with differences in the innate immune system and even more marked in the adaptive immune system. An analysis of the intestinal microbiota revealed dysbiosis, with an over-representation of Enterococcus, Clostridium and Bacteroides spp. Enterococcus was found to have translocated into the spleen in 67% exposed rats. Exposure to a 900 MHz RF-EMF appeared to alter the immune system (and particularly the adaptive immune system) directly or via intestinal dysbiosis.