Effect of low-level microwave irradiation on the duodenal electrical activity of the unanesthetized rat

The effects of low-level microwave irradiation (5 and 7.5 mW/cm2 at 2.45 GHz) on duodenal electrical activity (slow waves and action potentials) were studied in the unanesthetized rat by way of chronically implanted electrodes. Exposure to microwaves occurred in a cavity for 1 to 4 hours. The specific absorption rates (SAR) were measured at 5.35, 6.05, and 7.04 mW/g, respectively, under 5, 7.5, and 10 mW/cm2 of incident radiation. The results, obtained on seven rats, showed that microwaves usually produce an accelerating effect on the slow waves, and a specific inhibitory effect on action potentials. Those effects appear to be directly dependent on the SAR.