| Abstract: | There have been reports that electromagnetic radiation (EMR) alters the function of the immune system; however, these reports are often contradictory. This review reexamines the literature and attempts to evaluate the data on potential mechanisms of interaction of EMR on mammalian immune function. This report concludes that there is no convincing evidence that EMR effects on the human immune system are a health hazard. It was suggested by some authors that long-term EMR exposure may impair immune surveillance, and hypothetically thus facilitate tumor growth. Additional research is needed to prove or disprove this hypothesis. Available data indicate that EMR exposure does not affect the ability of cells of the immune system to respond to a subsequent challenge. However, the time-course and magnitude of the response may be affected by exposure following stimulation. Research to date provided evidence that at least at some frequencies and/or amplitude and pulse modulations, the site of primary interaction of EMR is at the cell membrane. However, it was shown that one specific response, the increase in B complement-receptor positive lymphocytes (Cr+) in the mouse is under genetic control by a single gene localized on chromosome 5. It is suggested that cells of the immune system are a convenient model for further studies on mechanisms of EMR interaction with living systems. Future research should be directed at exploring beneficial medical applications of EMR modulation of immune responses. |
