Multiscale and multiplexed biochemical analysis of tissues and cells to investigate brain injury upon directed pulsed electromagnetic radiation exposure.
Abstract
Approved for Public Release: Modern society extensively utilizes technologies that employ electromagnetic (EM) waves for energy transfer across various applications such as telecommunications, electronics, manufacturing, and biomedical imaging and treatment. Thispervasive use increases exposure risks to humans. The human brain, in particular, is highly sensitive to EM exposure due to its complex physiology and electrochemical activities. Human exposure to continuous, low-power radio frequency (RF) and microwave (MW) radiation, specifically 300MHz to 5GHz spectral range, is well-studied and generally deemed safe. However, the consequences of exposure to directed, short-pulsed RF/MW waves on the brain remain inadequately understood. Recent computational studies indicate that high-peak pulsed RF/MW exposure can induce rapid temperature increases, leading to localized mechanical stress in the soft brain tissues. Such thermal and mechanical disruption can potentially cause short- and long-term neurological injuries. Thus, it is important to understand the downstream biological impacts of radiation injury and establish reliable protection and diagnostics protocols. In this project, we aim to use a powerful mid-infrared spectrochemical imaging (MIRSI) approach to identify biomolecular perturbations associated with directed, pulsed RF/MW exposure in brain tissues. Moreover, we will develop a multiplexed bioassay to study soluble biomarker dynamics associated with brain tissue injury. Our aims are complementary to the cluster of collaborative projects taking place under the PANTHER (physics-based neutralization of threats to human tissues and organs) research hub, overseen by Dr. Timothy Bentley at ONR and Dr. Christian Franck at the University of Wisconsin#Madison. Specifically, our label-free and chemically specific MIRSI will introduce a new analytical approach to studying the biological response to pulsed RF/MW exposure at the tissue, cell, and subcellular molecular scale. Moreover, our soluble biomarker profiling will provide meaningful feedback to the computational cellular injury investigations and advance the understanding of primary brain injury pathophysiology and its downstream secondary molecular disruptions. The outcomes of this project can help establish reliable clinical diagnostics of mild traumatic brain injury. Moreover, it can facilitate the development of preventative and therapeutic strategies for EM radiation and blast exposure-related brain injuries.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 09, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142512005
Entities
People
- Filiz Yesilköy
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Wisconsin System