Researchers in Peru this week published a peer-reviewed analysis indicating that there are some common genes involved in Alzheimer’s Disease that are also affected by electromagnetic fields.
Applying rigorous criteria, the authors of this systematic review were able to show a relationship between the genes involved in Alzheimer’s and those that appear to be stimulated by electromagnetic fields. This raises important questions, particularly considering that according to the Cleveland Clinic nearly 50 percent of people over the age of 85 experience some form of dementia.
“What if a contributor to that turns out to be EMF?” EHT founder Dr. Devra Davis asks. “This new study indicates that oxidative stress also plays a role in the development of Alzheimer’s. We know that EMF induces oxidative stress—that has been established. This raises many interesting questions that we must actively investigate. And while we continue to follow up, this impressive study further strengthens the case for caution and reduction of exposure.”
The authors of the study, which appears in the current issue of Frontiers in Neurology, conclude, “Exposure to 2.4 GHz electromagnetic fields emitted by Wi-Fi devices could have an indirect impact on the regulation of genes involved in Alzheimer’s disease, particularly those related to oxidative stress and cellular homeostasis.” They specifically point out, “The alteration of genes such as GSK3B and APOE, which are fundamental in neurodegeneration, could be exacerbated by chronic exposure to this radiation.”
While many studies have demonstrated effects of electromagnetic radiation on the nervous system, this new research draws an important connection to Alzheimer’s, which the authors and EHT agree merits further investigation.
“It is exciting to know that scientists can now analyze the impact of an environmental stressor such as EMFs on individual genomic expression,” said Dr. Robert Brown, EHT’s vice president of scientific research and clinical affairs. “Over time, we will certainly gain a better understanding of the impact wireless radiation and electropollution in general are having on all living organisms.”
While this summary may be enough to encourage many of us to rethink holding a cell phone against our skulls, Dr. Brown also offered a more detailed reaction, with deeper insight into the highlighted genetic response. “This review addresses the genomic connection between the excessive production of reactive oxygen species and the development of oxidative stress from 2.4 GHz wireless communication radiation leading to protein denaturation and formation of protein aggregates—a known feature of Alzheimer’s disease. The review points to key genomic sequences that are impacted by 2.4 GHz radiation which hobbles the cell’s ability to function properly and to disassemble these aggregates leading to their accumulation.”
For readers fluent in genetics or biochemistry, this may be easy to follow. For the rest of us, what we really want to know is how this might impact our lives, and the lives of our loved ones. Dr. Brown answers that question more simply:
“This study only looked at the impact of 2.4 GHz on Alzheimer’s, but protein denaturation is a key component of other neurodegenerative diseases, such as Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease, in addition to amyloidosis. Over time, research studies will hopefully delve into the role of EMF exposure on the development of these diseases too.”
In the meantime, we recommend taking a few simple steps to safer use of wireless technology!
If you are able to help EHT in its efforts to conduct essential research and encourage sensible standards for EMF exposure, please consider making a donation.
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