Reduced viability of two prokaryotic organisms treated by low frequency electromagnetic field

Abstract

In spite of almost a decade of various scientific studies and endeavors, the research of electromagnetic fields and influence thereof on living systems is still a hot topic today. No final conclusions have been drawn, although the classification of extremely low frequency magnetic fields and radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as class 2B carcinogens has certainly tipped the scales in this long debate. In this article we present an interesting preliminary finding pertaining to the exposure of two prokaryotic organisms (Deinococcus radiodurans, Enterobacter aerogenes) to low frequency electromagnetic (EM) fields in the 1 to 2 kHz range. Whereas the first mentioned bacteria is highly viable in ionizing radiation up to 5000 Gy, experiments indicate a surprisingly profound effect of non-ionizing radiation on the division rate thereof. Likewise, the Enterobacter aerogenes responded well to the applied exogenous EM field.