title: Circadian neuroendocrine physiology and electromagnetic field studies: precautions and complexities.
abstract: The suppression of melatonin by exposure to low frequency electromagnetic fields (EMFs) 'the melatonin hypothesis'. has been invoked as a possible mechanism through which exposure to these fields may result in an increased incidence of cancer. While the effect of light on melatonin is well established, data showing a similar effect due to EMF exposure are sparse and, where present, are often poorly controlled. The current review focuses on the complexities associated with using melatonin as a marker and the dynamic nature of normal melatonin regulation by the circadian neuroendocrine axis. These are issues which the authors believe contribute significantly to the lack of consistency of results in the current literature. Recommendations on protocol design are also made which, if followed, should enable researchers to eliminate or control for many of the confounding factors associated with melatonin being an output from the circadian clock.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anaesthesiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand. g.warman@auckland.ac.nz
authors.forename: G R
authors.initials: GR
authors.lastname: Warman
authors.forename: H M
authors.initials: HM
authors.lastname: Tripp
authors.forename: V L
authors.initials: VL
authors.lastname: Warman
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Arendt
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004560:Electricity; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D006801:Humans; D008027:Light; D008550:Melatonin / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D009490:Neurosecretory Systems / Q000502:physiology / Q000528:radiation effects; D010775:Photic Stimulation / Q000379:methods; D010870:Pineal Gland / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects*; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D012107:Research Design
chemical_list: D008550:Melatonin