Bioelectromagnetics, complex behaviour and psychotherapeutic potential.
The brain is a complex non-linear dynamical system that is associated with a wide repertoire of behaviours. There is an ongoing debate as to whether low-intensity radio frequency (RF) bioelectromagnetic interactions induce a biological response. If they do, it is reasonable to expect that the interaction is non-linear. Contradictory reports are found in the literature and attempts to reproduce the subtle effects have often proved difficult. Researchers have already speculated that low-intensity RF radiation may offer therapeutic potential and millimetre-wave therapy is established in the countries of the former Soviet Union. A recent study using transgenic mice that exhibit Alzheimer's-like cognitive impairment shows that microwave radiation may possibly have therapeutic application. By using a highly dynamic stimulus and feedback it may be possible to augment the small effects that have been reported using static parameters. If a firm connection between low-intensity RF radiation and biological effects is established then the possibility arises for its psychotherapeutic application. Low intensity millimetre-wave and peripheral nervous system interactions also merit further investigation. Controlled RF exposure could be associated with quite novel characteristics and dynamics when compared to those associated with pharmacotherapy.
Pooley
D T
DT
Institute of Medical Engineering and Medical Physics, Cardiff School of Engineering, Cardiff University, Queen's Buildings, The Parade, CARDIFF CF24 3AA, Wales, UK. pooleyd1@cf.ac.uk
D000818:Animals; D001921:Brain / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D006801:Humans; D055909:Magnetic Field Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D051379:Mice