Investigation of biological effects associated with Terahertz radiation

Terahertz (THz) radiation sources are increasingly being used in military, defense, and medical applications. The study of the potential effects of THz radiation on biological systems is therefore an important issue in the safe development of a large number of applications. Despite the fact that the general population has not been exposed to this band of the electromagnetic spectrum, a timely assessment of the potential hazards and health effects from occupational and general population exposure is required. Unfortunately, very little research has been done in this area. In this study, we describe the findings of some research groups that illustrate the effects of THz exposure to different biological specimens with a focus on thermal effect, genotoxic effect, and effect on cell membrane and cell proliferation. While most of the results discussed showed no significant alteration of activity in the biological specimen because of exposure, in some studies evidence of genotoxic effects and effects on cell membrane was discovered. However, further research has to be done for better understanding of the bioeffects of THz radiation.