Induction of apoptosis by 900 MHz radiofrequency radiation emitted from a GSM mobile phone simulator in bystander Jurkat cells

Background: Radiation-induced bystander effect is a response which results in damage in non-irradiated cells in response to signals from the irradiated cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate microwave-induced bystander effect from a GSM mobile phone simulator on induction of apoptosis in Jurkat cell line. Materials and Methods: Jurkat cells were divided into three groups of non-irradiated, exposed and bystander (medium transfer from the irradiated cells). The exposed group was subjected to irradiation from GSM mobile simulator for 2h and 12h the medium from irradiated cells was then transferred to the bystander cells. Apoptosis rate was measured12 and 24 hours after treatment by Annex in V 7-AAD kit using flow cytometry. Results: Apoptosis was observed in both exposed and bystander cells of Jurkat cell line. The difference among non-irradiated, exposed and bystander cell groups was significant (p<0.05). Conclusion: From the obtained results it can be concluded that microwave radiation exposure in Jurkat cells leads to a significant increase in the apoptosis rate not only in the exposed cells but also in the bystander cells.