The effect of high intensity microwave exposure on enucleation of murine erythroid cells in vitro.

We have examined the effects of microwave vs sham exposure on the enucleation phase of murine erythroid cells in vitro. While enucleation occurs rapidly in vivo, it occurs somewhat slower in vitro and can be quantitated in terms of rate. Exposure to 915 MHz electromagnetic radiation is found to significantly reduce the rate of enucleation (P less than 0.001). Exposure is carried out in a TE10 mode energized water-filled temperature-controlled waveguide. It is hypothesized that the effects of the exposure are on cytoplasmic or plasma membrane-associated structures since the nucleus at this stage of maturation is completely condensed and inactive. This assay is of direct interest in itself as well as providing a tool for the investigation of biological response to microwave exposure.