| In a coherent, synergistic effort the Subcellular Response to Narrow Band and Wide Band Radio Frequency Radiation(SURRF) MURI (Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative)program will study the subcellular responses to narrowband and wideband radiofrequency radiation with frequency (distribution), power and exposure time as variable parameters, but such that the product of power and pulse duration, the energy, never exceeds values which let us expect nonthermal processes. The initiative will use appropriate RF sources, ranging from cw to pulsed generators with one nanosecond exposure time, and will thoroughly characterize the electric field and magnetic field distribution at the location of the irradiated samples. A lack of precision in design and characterization of the radiation source is assumed to be one of the major causes of non-reproduceable results reported in the literature. The focus of our research will be on one type of mammalian cell, easily grown and reproduced at any of the participating institutions, that will serve as standard. In addition other cell types of interest, such as neural cells, will be used for special studies.
To be successful in exploring this exciting field of science, a very close and highly interacting collaboration among biologists and physicists, biochemists and engineers is essential. Led by Old Dominion University, this team has eminent scientists in their respective fields of research from six academic institutions including Harvard/MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, University of Wisconsin, and Washington University. The research facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art research systems and well suited for this kind of project.
The results of these studies will be more than just a contribution to the knowledge base on bioelectromagnetic effects; they may lead to the development of novel sensitive detectors based on RF-induced changes in gene expression, and/or proteins. The search for nonthermal effects will lead to new and more sensitive diagnostic techniques, and might even lead to new therapeutic methods. These studies will contribute to the verification or change of safety standards for occupational and military personnel, and for the general public. Finally, though these studies focus on effects in mammalian cells, any knowledge obtained on lethal effects of wideband RF irradiation might be applicable to bacterial decontamination.
Adapted from abstract of MURI proposal titled "Subcellular Responses to Narrowband and Wideband Radio Frequency Radiation"
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