We studied an influence of continuous terahertz (THz) radiation (0.12 - 0.18 THz, average power density of 3.2 mW/cm) on a rat glial cell line. A dose-dependent cytotoxic effect of THz radiation is demonstrated. After 1 minute of THz radiation exposure a relative number of apoptotic cells increased in 1.5 times, after 3 minutes it doubled. This result confirms the concept of biological hazard of intense THz radiation. Diagnostic applications of THz radiation can be restricted by the radiation power density and exposure time.

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We study experimentally the absorption and refraction spectra for a number of amino acids, proteins and nucleic acids in the frequency range 0.1-3.5 THz. The characteristic absorption lines are revealed. The spectroscopy of water solutions of proteins and nucleic acids is carried out under conditions of total internal refraction. This method can be used for studies of the functional properties of biomolecules and the dynamics of their interaction.

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