Dissertation committee:
Δημήτριος Ι. Στραβοπόδης Επίκ. Καθηγητής (Επιβλέπων), Λουκάς Χ. Μαργαρίτης Ομότ. Καθηγητής, Ισιδώρα Σ. Παπασιδέρη Καθηγήτρια
Summary:
This PhD Thesis deals with the biological effects of non ionizing radiation
(NIR) on the model biological system of Drosophila melanogaster. The study
aimed to elucidate the in vivo mechanistic model of radiofrequencies’ impact,
focusing on stress induction (oxidative and ER stress), activation of
apoptosis, as well as altered gene expression by using daily-exposure
conditions and devices such as mobile phone (GSM 900 MHz, DCS 1800 MHz), DECT
cordless phone (1880 – 1900 MHz), Wi-Fi router (2400 – 2500 MHz) and a signal
generator. Exposure duration ranged from 6 min to 3 months and the electrical
field applied was under the limits determined by the legislation (0.3 – 17
V/m). The results point out the multi-dimensional and multi-leveled effects of
low-power NIR, at organism, cellular and molecular level. The possible
mechanism is based on the increase in ROS contents, which can disturb the redox
homeostasis and lead to the subsequent induction of both oxidative and ER
stress, eventually resulting to gene expression modifications in order to
activate defense mechanisms, against the stimulus of radiation. At the
cellular level, when cells cannot further cope with the induced impairments,
they activate apoptotic mechanisms, while at the organism level persistent
oxidative stress leads to reduced lifespan.
Keywords:
Non Ionizing Radiation, Apoptosis, Reactive Oxygen Species, Gene expression, Drosophila
