Extremely low frequency, weak electric fields affect schedule-controlled behaviour of monkeys

Abstract

THE effect of weak electric fields on behaviour of orgasnims has potentially important implications for basic neurophysiology and evaluation of environmental hazards (chronic exposure to weak 60-Hz electric fields has become a way of life). We have demonstrated¹ that weak (approximately 7 V m⁻¹ p–p), extremely low frequency (7 Hz) electric fields could modify a lever-press response in monkeys. We summarise here data² confirming that finding for a larger group of animals with more replications and presenting evidence for a dose-dependent relationship for 7-Hz fields. In addition there are indications of a threshold of 10–56 V m⁻¹ p–p for field frequencies higher than electroencephalogram (EEG) range (1–32 Hz). Adey³ has hypothesised that since these field levels areclearly too low to trigger synapsesinthe fashion prescribed by classical neurophysiology, more subtle membrane sensitivities may be functioning as central nervous system mediators of the observed behavioural effects. One possible mediator is the degree of calcium efflux across the membrane⁴.