Work

3.5GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) on metabolic disorders in Drosophila melanogaster

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The widespread implementation of fifth-generation (5 G) technology has raised concerns regarding its impact on biosafety. This study aims to uncover metabolic alterations in Drosophila melanogaster in response to electromagnetic radiation through metabolomics under 3.5 GHz radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) conditions. Newborn male flies were continuously exposed to 3.5 GHz RF-EMF at intensities of 0.1 W/m 2 , 1 W/m 2 , and 10 W/m 2 throughout their entire life cycle under 24-hour constant darkness. Metabolomic analysis was performed on Drosophila samples after long-term exposure. The results indicate that long-term exposure to RF-EMF leads to disruptions in four metabolic pathways - alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, ascorbate and aldehyde metabolism, and purine metabolism - as well as 34 differential metabolites across various power density in Drosophila melanogaster . Notably, the most significant metabolites (GABA, glucose-6-phosphate, AMP, N-formylglycinamide nucleotide, LPC, and MG) exhibited high sensitivity to RF-EMF showing significant decreases. The suggests that long-term exposure to electromagnetic wave treatment may reduce the overall metabolic levels in fruit fly. These findings provide valuable insights into the metabolic disturbance induced by RF-EMF and enhance our understanding of the potential health effects associated with 5 G radiation. • Long-term 3.5 GHz RF-EMF exposure disrupts metabolism in Drosophila melanogaster. • Key pathways affected: energy, neurotransmitter, membrane lipid, purine metabolism. • 34 altered metabolites did not exhibit a clear dose-dependent response to RF-EMF exposure. • Six sensitive biomarkers identified (e.g., GABA, glucose‑6‑phosphate), with significant decreases. • Results provide mechanistic insights into 5 G RF‑EMF biosafety impacts.

Source: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.119132

Authors: Yahong Wang, Ziyan Zhang, Lu Zhang, Yanyan Liao, Peng Cai

Institutions: Henan Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Urban Environment, Institute of Automation, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health

Language: English

Topic: Electromagnetic Fields and Biological Effects

Subfield: Biophysics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,650