Human melatonin in magnetic fields: Second study. Final report
- Midwest Research Inst., Kansas City, MO (United States)
Melatonin (MLT) is a hormone secreted primarily at night by the pineal gland in the brain. A number of studies suggest it is part of the body`s natural defenses against cancer. This hormone is reported to stimulate immune function and has been implicated in the control of cell proliferation, the growth of transplanted tumors, and the promotion and/or co-promotion of mammary tumors. MLT also plays a key role in the regulation of reproductive hormones implicated in a number of carcinogenic processes. Studies with rodents, although not always consistent, suggest that nocturnal MLT levels may be suppressed by electric or magnetic field (EMF) exposure. This relationship has been proposed as a possible biological mechanism to account for epidemiological reports linking chronic EMF exposure and increased cancer risk. Research was needed to determine if a similar suppression of MLT occurs when humans are exposed to magnetic fields at night.
- Research Organization:
- Electric Power Research Inst. (EPRI), Palo Alto, CA (United States); Midwest Research Inst., Kansas City, MO (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 151784
- Report Number(s):
- EPRI-TR-105766
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: PBD: Nov 1995
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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