Final answer:
The biological effects of gradient coils in MRI on tissues are mainly related to the induction of electric fields which could cause nerve stimulation or tissue heating, but these effects are mild and regulated. Unlike ionizing radiation, MRI does not cause damage to DNA or lead to cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The biological effects of gradient coils used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on tissues are an essential area of study in medicine, particularly regarding the safety of MRI procedures. The gradient coils are used to vary the magnetic field slightly across the volume being imaged to produce the position information required for MRI scans. As these coils are switched on and off rapidly during the imaging process, they produce changing magnetic fields that can induce electric fields in the body.
However, unlike ionizing radiation, the magnetic fields and radiofrequency (RF) waves used in MRI do not remove tightly bound electrons from atoms and thus generally do not cause the same type of molecular damage associated with ionizing radiation, such as the damage to DNA cells that can lead to cancer. Instead, potential effects could include nerve stimulation or heating of tissues, although these effects are typically mild and regulated by safety standards. On rare occasions, these induced currents could cause issues, but this is usually prevented by adhering to safety guidelines and limiting the rate of change of the magnetic field.