Title: Early Life Exposure to RadioFrequency Fields (ELERaFF)
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Background People are increasingly exposed to a broad spectrum of radiofrequency (RF) fields from an array of sources operating from a few hundred MHz to a few GHz. Sources include mobile and cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, and WiFi and wireless local area networks. Despite much research, there are still gaps in knowledge about the potential of low level RF fields to cause biological effects, and there are concerns that these exposures may have long-term effects on health. No studies have investigated the biological consequences of exposure to LTE signals associated with the latest generation of smart phones on neurocognitive development in animals. The effects of RF fields on development and behaviour have been identified as a research priority by WHO (2010). Aims in relation to the issue to be addressed. This study aims to investigate the effects of prenatal and early-life exposure on development and behaviour in an animal model. Behaviours relating to exploration and locomotion will be investigated, and additionally, learning and memory will be assessed to determine if exposure of pregnant mice has a detrimental or beneficial effect on the offspring. In addition, molecular studies will be carried out in parallel to investigate potential changes in gene and protein expression in the hippocampus and other areas of the brain to determine the underlying mechanisms for any observed behavioural changes. Research plan and methods of investigation. The signals to be investigated are associated with the 4th generation (4G) of mobile phones (Long Term Evolution - LTE) which is a standard for high speed data communication. Behavioural methodology will be used to study direct effects on the brain and its development. Activity and movement can be monitored in specially equipped home cages using state of the art animal tracking software. Structural changes and inflammatory responses that may occur across the brain will be investigated using immunohistochemistry studies. Genetic analysis studies will also be carried out using the GenomeLab GeXP Genetic Analysis System. This system is capable of gene expression studies, and analyzing other genetic endpoints including fragment analysis. Research team. The Non-Ionising Radiation Effects group has extensive experience in conducting international and national scientific studies investigating the biological and health consequences of exposure to RF fields. These studies include projects funded under the MTHR programme. Management of the project is carried out by an experienced project manager. The research team consists of senior scientists with extensive knowledge in behavioural studies, immunohistochemistry and gene expression techniques. The team will be supported by animal staff to oversee animal welfare at all stages of the study. Additional support will be provided during exposure sessions and behavioural assays. Physics and technical support will also be provided by the EMF Dosimetry Group at HPA in the initial stages of experimental set-up and preparation. Potential impact/influence on the relevant policy field, users and wider stakeholders. This research will provide accurate scientific data concerning the risks of exposure to RF fields to the fetus and following early life exposure. The results will be useful in assessing possible health risks from exposure to RF fields from mobile phones and in considering the needs to limit human exposure to these fields. The users of the information will include UK departments and agencies such as PHE, as well as international bodies such as WHO and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). To maximise the dissemination of the results, the outcomes of study will be presented at an international scientific meeting and the results will be submitted to a high quality peer-reviewed scientific journal.


Research activity codes: 2.2 FACTORS RELATING TO PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;NEUROLOGICAL