1.4 GHz amplitude-modulated radiofrequency electromagnetic waves effects on neural cultures

Abstract

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) technologies have the potential to positively impact the treatment of neurological disorders. However, NIBS techniques suffer from a lack of penetration depth and focality, thereby restraining their full potential. Here, we investigate the feasibility of a novel technique based on sinusoidal radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) that are amplitude-modulated in the extremely low frequency (ELF) range. To assess the neuromodulatory effects of ELF-modulated RF-EMF, we exposed primary neuronal cultures placed on Multi-Electrode Arrays (MEAs) and quantified their spiking activity based on phase entrainment. Our results failed to reveal consistent phase entrainment across cultures, while replicating a decrease of neuronal activity with purely sinusoidal 1.4 GHz stimulation. Finally, we suggest protocol improvements that might result in more reproducible effects, which is indispensable for translational applications.