Speaker
Description
This study evaluated the biological effects of intermediate-frequency magnetic fields (IF-MFs) on peripheral nerves and validated multiple pain assessment methods. Male BALB/c mice (n=5/group) were exposed to IF-MF (85 kHz, 6.1 mT) for 1 hour daily over 28 days, generating an electric field strength of 20 V/m (99th percentile: 53 V/m), corresponding to 2.3 times the ICNIRP occupational exposure limit. The study included IF-MF-exposed, sham-exposed, partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSL, positive control), and untreated control groups. Five pain assessment methods were employed: behavioral analysis (von Frey test), molecular analysis (RT-qPCR for inflammatory genes), histological analysis (H&E staining), biochemical analysis (CRP measurement), and cell analysis (flow cytometry for Ly-6G-positive cells). The PSL group showed significant differences across all assessment methods, validating their effectiveness. However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the IF-MF-exposed, sham-exposed, and control groups in any assessment method. These findings demonstrate that 28-day exposure to IF-MF at 2.3 times the ICNIRP occupational exposure limit does not cause peripheral neuropathy, while establishing effective methodologies for assessing IF-MF exposure effects. This comprehensive evaluation framework contributes valuable data for developing EMF safety guidelines.
