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Sensitive Molecules Involved in Spatial Learning and Memory Impairment of Mice Induced by 4.3 GHz Microwave Radiation
Tingting Qian1, Wenjing Cheng2, Lequan Song2
1Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, Hengyang 421001, China.
Biomolecules
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Exposure to 4.3 GHz microwave radiation impairs spatial learning and memory in mice, causing hippocampal damage and altering synaptic plasticity molecules like Arc and Ebf3.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biophysics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Microwave technology is widely used, raising biosafety concerns, especially for the central nervous system.
- The brain is vulnerable to microwave radiation, but mechanisms of microwave-induced cognitive impairment are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of 4.3 GHz microwave radiation on spatial learning and memory in mice.
- To identify molecular changes in the hippocampus linked to microwave-induced cognitive deficits.
Main Methods:
- Mice were exposed to 4.3 GHz microwave radiation (10 or 30 mW/cm²).
- Spatial learning and memory assessed via Morris water maze (MWM).
- Hippocampal structure analyzed using HE staining, RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq), and 4D-data-independent acquisition (4D-DIA).
Main Results:
- Microwave exposure impaired spatial learning and navigation (increased MWM escape latency).
- Transient neuronal damage observed in hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions.
- Upregulation of synaptic plasticity genes (Arc, Ebf3) and WNK3 protein; downregulation of Protein sidekick-2 and IQGAP1.
Conclusions:
- 4.3 GHz microwave radiation negatively impacts hippocampal structure and function, leading to cognitive deficits.
- Alterations in synaptic plasticity pathways and specific molecules (Arc, Ebf3, Protein sidekick-2, WNK3, IQGAP1) are associated with microwave-induced cognitive impairment.
