Possible effects of 3200 MHz radio-frequency field on cardiac blood parameters in rats

Abstract

Aims: Radiofrequency (RF) technologies are widely used in modern communication systems, particularly with the introduction of fifth-generation (5G) networks. Despite increasing exposure to RF fields, their potential biological effects remain controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of repeated exposure to a 3200 MHz RF field on cardiac injury biomarkers in a rat model. We hypothesized that repeated RF exposure would induce measurable alterations in cardiac biomarkers. Methods: Thirty-four male Wistar albino rats (220-280 g) were randomly assigned to five groups: control, sham-15 min, sham-1 h, RF exposure-15 min, and RF exposure-1 h. Animals in exposure groups were subjected to a 3200 MHz RF field for 15 minutes or 1 hour daily for 15 consecutive days. Serum troponin I, creatine kinase (CK), and plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were measured using the Abbott Alinity I immunoassay autoanalyzer (Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL, USA). Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad software. Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in troponin I or BNP levels among the groups (p<0.05). A statistically significant increase in CK levels was detected only between the sham-15 min and RF exposure-15 min groups (p<0.05), as well as between the control and sham-15 min groups. No consistent biomarker elevation associated with RF exposure duration was identified. Conclusion: Exposure to a 3200 MHz RF field at SAR levels of 0.3-0.36 W/kg did not significantly alter cardiac biomarkers, including troponin I and BNP, under the experimental conditions of this study.