[Impact of radiofrequency/microwave radiation on cell and cytoskeleton structure].

The increasing number of mobile phone users raises concern about possible hazardous effects of radiofrequency/microwave (RF/MW) electromagnetic fields. The most intriguing issue is the existence of the so called non-thermal effect which is not related to increased temperature. Possible biological effects, associated with the exposure to RF/MW fields have not been elucidated so far. A number of in vitro studies have attempted to see whether permissible levels of RF/MW affect the cell membrane, gene transcription, apoptosis, and whether they induce stress. However, the effect of RF/MW on the cytoskeleton, one of the most important cell structures, remains unknown. Cytoskeleton is a functional and structural part of the cell, composed of actin, intermedial filaments and microtubules. Microtubules direct the distribution of cellular organelles, determine cell shape, cell polarity and segregation of chromosomes during mitosis.