Alterations in neuronal action potential shape and spiking rate caused by pulsed 60 GHz millimeter wave radiation

This study demonstrates effect of 60 GHz radiation applied in a pulsed mode to the finite neuronal network. Short powerful pulses of 50 to 300 msec duration were applied to leech neuronal ganglion and electrophysiological activity of the Retzius cells were recorded via sharp electrodes. Pulses were applied with respect to the natural activity of the tested cell and preconditioned every recorded action potential. Despite fairly low increase of sample's temperature caused by radiation's heating, clear and instant alteration in action potential parameters occurred. Along with that the prolonged utilization of this mode resulted into decrease of action potential spiking rate. Obtained results demonstrate the potential use of sub-terahertz radiation for wireless modulation of neuronal activity.