In May 2025, a peer-reviewed study by a research group at Constructor University in Germany confirmed that exposure to high-frequency 5G electromagnetic fields (EMFs) does not cause molecular or genetic damage to human skin cells. The findings directly address long-standing public concerns about potential biological effects associated with millimeter-wave 5G signals, especially as global deployments expand into higher frequency bands. So, now let us see Safety of 5G EMF Exposure on Human Skin Cells along with Accurate LTE RF drive test tools in telecom & RF drive test software in telecom and Accurate 4G Tester, 4G LTE Tester, 4G Network Tester and VOLTE Testing tools & Equipment in detail.
Using well-controlled laboratory experiments and genome-wide sequencing, the researchers found no evidence of harmful changes after cells were subjected to these signals.
Experimental Setup and Technical Conditions
The study focused on two types of primary human skin cells:
- Keratinocytes, which form the outer layer of the skin and act as the first barrier against environmental elements, and
- Dermal fibroblasts, which are responsible for structural maintenance and wound healing processes.
The researchers exposed these cells to millimeter-wave EMFs at frequencies of 27 GHz and 40.5 GHz, which are within the range used for 5G FR2 (Frequency Range 2) operations. The power flux densities applied were up to 10 mW/cm², a level that is above the typical public exposure limit set by international safety standards (e.g., ICNIRP guidelines).
Two exposure durations were tested:
- A short-term 2-hour session
- A longer-term 48-hour exposure
The team used waveguides to deliver the EMF exposure uniformly across the cell cultures, and precise thermal sensors ensured that no unintended heating effects confounded the results. Heating is a common concern in high-frequency RF exposure studies, and this was carefully controlled for.
To reduce bias, the study followed a blinded experimental design, where data analysts were not informed which samples had been exposed to EMF. This approach improves reliability by minimizing the influence of assumptions or expectations.
Molecular Analysis Methods
After the exposure sessions, the researchers performed the following analyses:
- Whole-genome RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq): This method assesses changes in gene expression by quantifying the abundance of RNA transcripts in each sample. If 5G EMF had triggered a stress response or impacted cell function, it would have shown up in altered gene activity patterns.
- DNA methylation profiling: DNA methylation is a chemical modification that regulates gene expression. Disruptions in methylation patterns are linked to various diseases, including cancer and inflammatory disorders.
Both datasets were compared between EMF-exposed and non-exposed (control) samples. The analysis involved statistical modeling and normalization to account for biological variability.
Findings and Interpretation
The results showed:
- No statistically significant changes in gene expression in either keratinocytes or fibroblasts, across both frequencies and exposure durations.
- No detectable changes in DNA methylation profiles attributable to the EMF exposure.
Any differences observed were within the range of natural biological variation and did not cluster in pathways related to stress, inflammation, cell cycle regulation, or apoptosis.
This outcome indicates that even under high-exposure conditions, 5G millimeter-wave radiation does not trigger cellular stress responses or disrupt genetic regulatory mechanisms in human skin cells.
Safety Standards and Exposure Limits
The research outcomes align with international safety recommendations provided by:
- ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection)
- FCC (Federal Communications Commission, USA)
- IEEE C95.1 standard
These bodies have reviewed numerous studies to define safe thresholds for EMF exposure, particularly in the 6 GHz–100 GHz frequency range.
The exposure levels in the Constructor University study were higher than those typically encountered by the public, making this a worst-case scenario evaluation. Despite this, no biological effects were observed, supporting the conclusion that 5G technology is safe when operated within regulatory guidelines.
Global Scientific Context
This study adds to an existing body of scientific literature that has explored the non-ionizing nature of radiofrequency radiation. Unlike ionizing radiation (e.g., X-rays, gamma rays), 5G EMFs do not carry enough energy to break chemical bonds or alter DNA directly.
Several independent reviews, including those by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Public Health England, have not found credible evidence linking low-level RF exposure from cellular networks to cancer or other chronic health effects.
A notable distinction in this study is its focus on millimeter-wave exposure, which is relatively new in commercial telecom deployment. Most prior studies examined frequencies used in 2G, 3G, and 4G networks (typically below 3 GHz).
Public Concerns and Scientific Response
Despite the consensus among scientists, public fears have persisted around the introduction of higher 5G bands, particularly as base stations become more densely deployed in urban areas. Concerns are often amplified by misinformation or non-peer-reviewed content.
This study helps to provide evidence-based reassurance by using a transparent, reproducible approach and modern sequencing tools to assess the actual biological response to 5G EMFs.
Researchers have also emphasized that while continued monitoring is warranted, there is no scientific basis for limiting 5G deployment on the grounds of health risk, as long as exposure remains within regulated limits.
Future Directions in 5G Safety Research
Although the current findings are strong, the researchers recommend further investigations into:
- Other human cell types, such as neurons or immune cells
- Different tissue models, such as 3D organoids or full-skin models
- Longer exposure durations, to simulate real-world chronic usage
- In vivo studies, involving animal models to observe systemic effects
Future studies will also need to consider 5G-enabled devices like wearables and IoT sensors, which could lead to more localized or prolonged exposure to specific areas of the body.
Additionally, the upcoming 6G wireless standards will operate at even higher frequencies, possibly exceeding 100 GHz. Safety studies at those levels will be critical in the coming years.
Conclusion
The experimental study from Constructor University provides clear, technical evidence that 5G millimeter-wave radiation does not harm human skin cells at the molecular level. By testing exposure conditions well beyond regulatory limits and applying detailed gene expression and epigenetic profiling, the researchers found no signs of biological damage.
As 5G continues to expand globally, especially into higher frequencies, this study helps to inform both scientific and public understanding of its health effects. It also strengthens the basis for regulatory agencies to maintain current exposure guidelines without adjustments, supporting the safe and continued rollout of 5G infrastructure.
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