Impact of high frequency electromagnetic radiation on bacterial survival and antibiotic activity in exposed bacteria

High-frequency electromagnetic waves (HFEMWs) have been shown to influence cellular functions, including bacterial behavior, potentially affecting growth and antibiotic sensitivity. This study evaluated the response of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus to HFEMWs across a frequency range of 900 MHz to 73 GHz. The Bacterial sensitivity to antibiotics, including ceftazidime, ceftaroline, gentamycin, doxycycline, and ciprofloxacin, was assessed. The growth rate was evaluated by measuring the optical density (OD) and the number of colony-forming units (CFUs). Our results revealed significant electromagnetic interference (EMI) effects at frequencies of 51.8 GHz and 53 GHz, with 53 GHz showing the most pronounced impact. These frequencies enhanced bacterial susceptibility, with previously resistant E. coli and S. aureus strains becoming sensitive to tested antibiotics. Conversely, 70.6 GHz and 73 GHz frequencies showed limited effects, while exposure to 900 MHz and 1800 MHz caused no notable changes. These findings highlight the frequency-dependent effects of HFEMWs on bacterial viability and antibiotic sensitivity. This research underscores the potential of HFEMWs as a complementary antimicrobial strategy, offering opportunities for improved infection control and innovative sterilization technologies to mitigate hospital-acquired infections.