However, a small experiment with two baboons showed profound suppression of melatonin production. Some engineering and physical science investigators believe the high frequency noise of transients is more likely to produce effects than a pure 60-Hz signal. When the three main experiments were completed, the transients were removed. However, it is possible that the electrical engineer's noise is the relevant biological signal. Biological investigators suggest that time of exposure, and variability in exposure, might be particularly important.
Organisms adapt rapidly to regular events, whereas irregular events can continue to produce stress.
Real world exposure to electric and magnetic fields is extremely irregular, and transients are common. As is so often the case in science, further research is required. Although there is considerable experimental evidence to show that exposure to extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields can affect biological functions in the laboratory, there is no evidence supporting the view that exposure to electric and magnetic fields associated with electric power is a major danger. The consequences of any effect could be beneficial or adverse, depending on the situation. The unproved possibility that field exposure might affect melatonin, for example, is certainly worthy of additional study.