The Perform-B program involves both in vivo and in vitro replication studies with two different laboratories being involved in each of the proposed studies, with the main focus on attempting to replicate the work of earlier studies as indicated. In this area the fact that two laboratories are undertaking further attempts to replicate or confirm the early studies simultaneously add significantly to the available evidence that will be used in future reviews of the science in each area

1. Activity of the enzyme ODC in cell cultures following RF exposure. This study being undertaken by laboratories in France and Finland is a replication of work by the Litovitz group suggesting a temporary increase in ODC activity in L929 fibroblasts after exposure to NAD phone signal

2. Genotoxicity studies following RF exposure. This study being undertaken in Italy and the United Kingdon is a replication of work undertaken by the Maes group suggesting increased sister chromatid exchange in human lymphocytes.

3. Spatial working memory in rodents. This study being undertaken by laboratories in the United Kingdom and France is a replication of research published by Lai et al. that reported decreased maze performance ability in rodents after they had been exposed.

The final report of the project has been issued November 2004:

Download of final Perfom-B report

Conclusion in the final report 

Overall, the results obtained within Perform-B are negative in that two of the projects failed to replicate previous work on ODC activity and memory of rodents while the third project failed to bring evidence of genotoxic effects on cells with or without synergy with X-rays.  Great care was taken to:

• Use well-designed and calibrated exposure systems provided by the ITIS Foundation
• Duplicate the protocols in two laboratories and exchange exposure systems or samples when possible,
• Consult external advisors who are experts in their field of research.

The results will contribute greatly to the scientific database needed for health risk evaluation undertaken by international agencies such as WHO and ICNIRP.