Bioelektromos

Bioelektromos, commonly called bioelectromagnetism in English, is the field that studies the interaction between living organisms and electric and magnetic fields, as well as the electrical activity produced by biological systems. It encompasses how cells generate and propagate electric signals, how ions cross membranes, and how external electromagnetic fields can influence cellular and tissue processes.

Biological systems generate endogenous electrical activity, such as the resting membrane potential and action potentials in neurons. External fields—static or time-varying—can modulate signaling, growth, and repair, depending on strength, frequency, and exposure duration. The field also examines how biomagnetic fields arise, for example from neural and cardiac activity, which are measured with specialized equipment.

Techniques and applications stem from these principles. Biosignals are recorded with ECG, EEG, EMG, and magnetoencephalography (MEG). Medical imaging and therapy involve electromagnetic methods, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and functional MRI, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), electroporation for gene or drug delivery, and implanted devices such as deep brain stimulators. Research also investigates nanoscale and cellular responses to electromagnetic exposure and potential uses in tissue engineering.

Safety and regulation are important aspects, with guidelines from bodies such as ICNIRP and IEEE to limit exposure to high-intensity or rapidly changing fields. While low-level exposures are widely regarded as safe, high-intensity fields can cause heating or stimulation of nerves and muscles. Ongoing research aims to clarify mechanisms and optimize therapeutic and diagnostic applications.