Interaction of electromagnetic fields with living matter

The mechanism of mutual communication between biological tissues and the electromagnetic field is the creation of time-varying electric fields and currents. At the cellular level, interaction is responsible for creating tension across cell membranes. At the threshold value, the voltage created creates a direct irritation of excitable cells. The tension is sufficient to irritate the nerves and muscle cells so that they contract. Based on this mechanism, we perceive electric currents that flow through our body.

Electromagnetic fields give rise to time-varying electrical charges on the surface of the body. In addition, electric fields, polarization changes and currents are created inside the body.

The biological effects produced must be associated with subsequent electrochemical processes (most likely in the cell membranes) that affect the properties of the cells. The generated currents tend to flow outside the cell and can affect ion transport. The latter runs across the membrane through voltage-gated ion channels. They can also affect membrane proteins, or the binding of hormones to cell surfaces.

The activity of proteins depends on their three-dimensional arrangement. If electric fields change their shape, the protein's ability to function as an enzyme, receptor, or ion channel also changes. Large electric fields can cause changes in membrane channels. They can also change the composition of enzymes, membranes, the shape of proteins, receptors, the shape of cells or the diffusion of ions that surround individual cells.

Links

References

• NAVRÁTIL, Leoš – ROSINA, Jozef. Medicínská biofyzika. 1. edition. Grada Publishing, 2005. 524 pp. ISBN 978-80-247-1152-2.