Effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) on catalase, cytochrome P450 and nitric oxide synthase in erythro-leukemic cells

The Extremely-Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field Affects Apoptosis and Oxidative-Stress-Related Genes and Proteins in the Porcine Endometrium-An In Vitro Study

Nowadays, the extremely-low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) is recognized as environmental pollution. The data indicate that the ELF-EMF may affect factors related to epigenetic regulation and alter important biological processes in the uterus. The impact of the ELF-EMF on apoptosis and oxidative-stress-related genes has not been documented in porcine endometrium. This raises the question of whether the exposure to the ELF-EMF can induce apoptosis and/or oxidative stress in the endometrium of pigs during the peri-implantation period. Porcine endometrial slices (100 ± 5 mg) collected (n = 5) during the peri-implantation period were treated in vitro with ELF-EMF at a frequency of 50 Hz and flux density of 8 × 104 mG for 2 h. To determine the effect of ELF-EMF on apoptosis and oxidative stress in the endometrium, CASP3, CASP7, CIDEB, GADD45G, NOS1, NOS2, NOS3, and TP53I3 mRNA transcript were analyzed using real-time PCR, and protein abundance of CASP3, CASP7 using Western blot, and eNOS using ELISA were determined. Moreover, CASP3/7 and NOS activity was analyzed using flow cytometry and colorimetry, respectively. The decreased CASP7 and increased NOS3 mRNA transcript and protein abundance in ELF-EMF-treated endometrium were observed. Moreover, CIDEB, GADD45G, and TP53I3 mRNA transcript abundance was increased. Only p ≤ 0.05 was considered a statistically significant difference. The documented alterations indicate the potential of the ELF-EMF to affect apoptosis and generate oxidative stress in the endometrium. The insight into observed consequences documents for the first time the fact that the ELF-EMF may influence endometrial cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and/or tissue receptivity during peri-implantation.

The Application of Electromagnetic Fields in Cancer

The use of nonionizing electromagnetic fields (EMFs) has attracted interest in cancer research during the past few decades due to its noninvasive therapeutic successes in the treatment of cancer. Some epidemiological studies suggest that there may be a link between exposure to EMF and developing malignancies (such as leukemia and gliomas) or neurodegenerative diseases since EMF has a variety of biological effects such as altering reactive oxygen species (ROS)-regulated pathways. EMF exposure, however, has the potential to cause cancer cells to undergo a period of regulated cell death. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly investigate how EMF might influence cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis - processes that are targeted in cancer treatment. In this chapter, we give a thorough summary of the most recent studies on the potential use of various EMF applications with adjustable settings to treat different forms of cancer.

Quantum Molecular Resonance Inhibits NLRP3 Inflammasome/Nitrosative Stress and Promotes M1 to M2 Macrophage Polarization: Potential Therapeutic Effect in Osteoarthritis Model In Vitro

This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of Quantum Molecular Resonance (QMR) technology in an in vitro model of osteoarthritis-related inflammation. The study used THP-1-derived macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide and hyaluronic acid fragments to induce the expression of inflammatory cytokines and nitrosative stress. QMR treatment inhibited COX-2 and iNOS protein expression and activity and reduced NF-κB activity. Furthermore, QMR treatment led to a significant reduction in peroxynitrite levels, reactive nitrogen species that can form during inflammatory conditions, and restored tyrosine nitration values to those similar to sham-exposed control cells. We also investigated the effect of QMR treatment on inflammasome activation and macrophage polarization in THP-1-derived macrophages. Results showed that QMR treatment significantly decreased NLRP3 and activated caspase-1 protein expression levels and downregulated IL-18 and IL-1β protein expression and secretion. Finally, our findings indicate that QMR treatment induces a switch in macrophage polarization from the M1 phenotype to the M2 phenotype.

Electromagnetic fields ameliorate hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress: potential role of CaMKKβ/AMPK/SREBP-1c and Nrf2 pathways

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide, and is related to disturbed lipid metabolism and redox homeostasis. However, a definitive drug treatment has not been approved for this disease. Studies have found that electromagnetic fields (EMF) can ameliorate hepatic steatosis and oxidative stress. Nevertheless, the mechanism remains unclear.

METHODS

NAFLD models were established by feeding mice a high-fat diet. Simultaneously, EMF exposure is performed. The effects of the EMF on hepatic lipid deposition and oxidative stress were investigated. Additionally, the AMPK and Nrf2 pathways were analysed to confirm whether they were activated by the EMF.

RESULTS

Exposure to EMF decreased the body weight, liver weight and serum triglyceride (TG) levels and restrained the excessive hepatic lipid accumulation caused by feeding the HFD. The EMF boosted CaMKKβ protein expression, activated AMPK phosphorylation and suppressed mature SREBP-1c protein expression. Meanwhile, the activity of GSH-Px was enhanced following an increase in nuclear Nrf2 protein expression by PEMF. However, no change was observed in the activities of SOD and CAT. Consequently, EMF reduced hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and MDA levels, which means that EMF relieved liver damage caused by oxidative stress in HFD-fed mice.

CONCLUSIONS

EMF may activate the CaMKKβ/AMPK/SREBP-1c and Nrf2 pathways to control hepatic lipid deposition and oxidative stress. This investigation indicates that EMF may be a novel therapeutic method for NAFLD.

Liver tissues oxidative status, epigenetic and molecular characteristics in rats administered magnetic and microwave treated water

Physical and chemical changes in the natural of water may affect biological organisms. In this study, we highlight the effect of magnetized-water and microwave-water on rats' liver tissues. Three groups of albino rats were separated. The first, rats were administered tap-water. The second, rats were administered magnetized-water. The third, rats were administered microwave-water. After two months, the results revealed a significant increase in liver functioning enzymes' levels and bilirubin in rats administered microwave-water, compared to tap- and magnetic-water. In relation to oxidative stress, there was a significant increase and decrease in oxidative and antioxidant parameters respectively in liver tissues of rat's administrated microwave-water. At the molecular level, there was a significant down-regulation in Metallothionein, CYP genes in magnetic-water compared to tap-water. Rats administered microwave-water have shown a significant down-regulation in GST, Metallothionein and CYP genes' expression, however, Amylase and HDAC3 genes were significantly up-regulated, compared to the other groups. The intake of microwave-water resulted in notable histopathological changes in liver tissues. Rats administered magnetic-water showed no clear changes in their liver tissues. In summary, microwave-water induced stress and epigenetic effects compared with magnetic-water and tap-water. Also, magnetic-water produced from the higher magnetic power had no side effect on liver tissues.

Can extremely low frequency magnetic field affect human sperm parameters and male fertility?

Exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) may have different effects on spermatozoa depending on the waveform, magnetic flux density, frequency of ELF-MF, and duration of exposure. In this study, we investigated the possible role of ELF-MF (50 Hz; 1 mT) exposure in altering sperm parameters. In this study we found that exposure to ELF-MF at the frequency of 50 Hz (1 mT) for two hours induces statistically significant alterations in progressive motility, morphology and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production of human spermatozoa, suggesting a role of ELF-MF in altering reproductive function of spermatozoa. Our results represent an important discovery in the field since occupational exposure to the sine waveform 1 mT 50 Hz ELF-MF used in our study is possible in workplace. Moreover, these electromagnetic fields are product by many electronic devices and household appliances. Thus, alterations of progressive motility and morphology of spermatozoa would be important consequences of human exposures to ELF-MF.

A Review of Aspects of Synaptic Plasticity in Hippocampus via mT Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields

The subthreshold magnetic modulation technique stimulates cells with mT extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs), which are insufficient to induce neuronal action potentials. Although they cannot directly induce resting neurons to discharge, mT magnetic stimulation can regulate the excitability of the nervous system, which regulates learning and memory by some unknown mechanisms. Herein, we describe the regulation of mT ELF-MFs with different parameters on synaptic plasticity in hippocampal neurons. Additionally, we summarize the latest research on the possible mechanism of the effect of ELF-MFs on synaptic plasticity. Some studies have shown that ELF-MFs are able to inhibit long-term potentiation (LTP) by increasing concentration of intracellular Ca²⁺ concentration ([Ca²⁺ ]_i ), as well as concentration of reactive oxygen species. The research in this paper has significance for the comprehensive understanding of relevant neurological mechanisms of learning and memory by mT ELF-MFs stimulation. However, more high-quality research is necessary to determine the regulatory mechanism of mT ELF-MFs on synaptic plasticity in order to optimize this technique as a treatment for neurological diseases. © 2023 Bioelectromagnetics Society.

Magnetic field effects in biology from the perspective of the radical pair mechanism

Hundreds of studies have found that weak magnetic fields can significantly influence various biological systems. However, the underlying mechanisms behind these phenomena remain elusive. Remarkably, the magnetic energies implicated in these effects are much smaller than thermal energies. Here, we review these observations, and we suggest an explanation based on the radical pair mechanism, which involves the quantum dynamics of the electron and nuclear spins of transient radical molecules. While the radical pair mechanism has been studied in detail in the context of avian magnetoreception, the studies reviewed here show that magnetosensitivity is widespread throughout biology. We review magnetic field effects on various physiological functions, discussing static, hypomagnetic and oscillating magnetic fields, as well as isotope effects. We then review the radical pair mechanism as a potential unifying model for the described magnetic field effects, and we discuss plausible candidate molecules for the radical pairs. We review recent studies proposing that the radical pair mechanism provides explanations for isotope effects in xenon anaesthesia and lithium treatment of hyperactivity, magnetic field effects on the circadian clock, and hypomagnetic field effects on neurogenesis and microtubule assembly. We conclude by discussing future lines of investigation in this exciting new area of quantum biology.

Bidirectional Effect of Repeated Exposure to Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (50 Hz) of 1 and 7 mT on Oxidative/Antioxidative Status in Rat's Brain: The Prediction for the Vulnerability to Diseases

Studies reported evidence for opposite effects of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (EMF): harmful, including the oxidative stress induction, and beneficial, such as the activation of antioxidant defense. People's exposure to EMF is often repeated or prolonged, and it is important to consider the cumulative effect of such kind of exposure on the organism. If changes evoked by repeated exposure to EMF are permanent, responsiveness to other stress factors can be modified. The aims of our study were (1) to evaluate changes in the levels of oxidative stress and antioxidant defense markers in the prefrontal cortex of adult rats after repeated exposure to 1 and 7 mT EMF and (2) to assess whether repeated EMF exposure can modify oxidative/antioxidative status in response to other stress factors. Rats were exposed to EMF 1 h/day for 7 days, one, twice, or three times. After each exposure, 8-isoprostanes, protein carbonyl groups, and the total antioxidant capacity were assessed. Part of the animals, after EMF treatment, was exposed to another stress factor—open field. Results showed that repeated exposure changed the oxidative/antioxidative status depending on the intensity of the EMF and the number of exposures. 1 mT EMF created weak changes in the oxidative status in the brain; however, 7 mT EMF moved the balance to a clearly higher level. The changes in the oxidative status after 1 mT EMF were enough to reduce, and after 7 mT EMF to intensify oxidative processes in response to the next stress. We concluded that the organism might adapt to “weak” EMF, while “strong” EMF exceeds the adaptive capacity of the organism and sensitizes it to subsequent stress, and thus may modulate vulnerability to diseases. Our results also provide new insights into the possible therapeutic properties of the magnetic field, as 1 mT EMF appears to have a potentially protective impact on the brain.

Magnetic Fields and Cancer: Epidemiology, Cellular Biology, and Theranostics

Humans are exposed to a complex mix of man-made electric and magnetic fields (MFs) at many different frequencies, at home and at work. Epidemiological studies indicate that there is a positive relationship between residential/domestic and occupational exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields and some types of cancer, although some other studies indicate no relationship. In this review, after an introduction on the MF definition and a description of natural/anthropogenic sources, the epidemiology of residential/domestic and occupational exposure to MFs and cancer is reviewed, with reference to leukemia, brain, and breast cancer. The in vivo and in vitro effects of MFs on cancer are reviewed considering both human and animal cells, with particular reference to the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS). MF application on cancer diagnostic and therapy (theranostic) are also reviewed by describing the use of different magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) applications for the detection of several cancers. Finally, the use of magnetic nanoparticles is described in terms of treatment of cancer by nanomedical applications for the precise delivery of anticancer drugs, nanosurgery by magnetomechanic methods, and selective killing of cancer cells by magnetic hyperthermia. The supplementary tables provide quantitative data and methodologies in epidemiological and cell biology studies. Although scientists do not generally agree that there is a cause-effect relationship between exposure to MF and cancer, MFs might not be the direct cause of cancer but may contribute to produce ROS and generate oxidative stress, which could trigger or enhance the expression of oncogenes.

Cellular stress response to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF): An explanation for controversial effects of ELF-EMF on apoptosis

Impaired apoptosis is one of the hallmarks of cancer, and almost all of the non‐surgical approaches of eradicating tumour cells somehow promote induction of apoptosis. Indeed, numerous studies have stated that non‐ionizing non‐thermal extremely low‐frequency magnetic fields (ELF‐MF) can modulate the induction of apoptosis in exposed cells; however, much controversy exists in observations. When cells are exposed to ELF‐EMF alone, very low or no statistically significant changes in apoptosis are observed. Contrarily, exposure to ELF‐EMF in the presence of a co‐stressor, including a chemotherapeutic agent or ionizing radiation, can either potentiate or inhibit apoptotic effects of the co‐stressor. In our idea, the main point neglected in interpreting these discrepancies is “the cellular stress responses” of cells following ELF‐EMF exposure and its interplay with apoptosis. The main purpose of the current review was to outline the triangle of ELF‐EMF, the cellular stress response of cells and apoptosis and to interpret and unify discrepancies in results based on it. Therefore, initially, we will describe studies performed on identifying the effect of ELF‐EMF on induction/inhibition of apoptosis and enumerate proposed pathways through which ELF‐EMF exposure may affect apoptosis; then, we will explain cellular stress response and cues for its induction in response to ELF‐EMF exposure; and finally, we will explain why such controversies have been observed by different investigators.

Challenges on the effect of cell phone radiation on mammalian embryos and fetuses: a review of the literature

Cell phones operate with a wide range of frequency bands and emit radiofrequency-electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR). Concern on the possible health hazards of RF-EMR has been growing in many countries because these RF-EMR pulses may be absorbed into the body cells, directly affecting them. There are some in vitro and in vivo animal studies related to the consequences of RF-EMR exposure from cell phones on embryo development and offspring. In addition, some studies have revealed that RF-EMR from cellular phone may lead to decrease in the rates of fertilization and embryo development, as well as the risk of the developmental anomalies, other studies have reported that it does not interfere with in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection success rates, or the chromosomal aberration rate. Of course, it is unethical to study the effect of waves generated from cell phones on the forming human embryos. Conversely, other mammals have many similarities to humans in terms of anatomy, physiology and genetics. Therefore, in this review we focused on the existing literature evaluating the potential effects of RF-EMR on mammalian embryonic and fetal development.

Anti-Oxidative and Immune Regulatory Responses of THP-1 and PBMC to Pulsed EMF Are Field-Strength Dependent

Innate immune cells react to electromagnetic fields (EMF) by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), crucial intracellular messengers. Discrepancies in applied parameters of EMF studies, e.g., flux densities, complicate direct comparison of downstream anti-oxidative responses and immune regulatory signaling. We therefore compared the impact of different EMF flux densities in human leukemic THP1 cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of healthy donors to additionally consider a potential disparate receptivity based on medical origin. ROS levels increased in THP1 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) after one hour of EMF exposure. Moreover, weak EMF mitigated the depletion of the reducing agent NAD(P)H in THP1. Neither of these effects occurred in PBMC. Landscaping transcriptional responses to varied EMF revealed elevation of the anti-oxidative enzymes PRDX6 (2-fold) and DHCR24 (6-fold) in THP1, implying involvement in lipid metabolism. Furthermore, our study confirmed anti-inflammatory effects of EMF by 6-fold increased expression of IL10. Strikingly, THP1 responded to weak EMF, while PBMC were primarily affected by strong EMF, yet with severe cellular stress and enhanced rates of apoptosis, indicated by HSP70 and caspase 3 (CASP3). Taken together, our results emphasize an altered susceptibility of immune cells of different origin and associate EMF-related effects with anti-inflammatory signaling and lipid metabolism.

Effects of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field on different developmental stages of Drosophila melanogaster

PURPOSE

The model biological organism Drosophila melanogaster has been utilized to assess the effect of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) on locomotion, longevity, developmental dynamics, cell viability and oxidative stress.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

Developmental stages of Drosophila melanogaster (Oregon R strain) individually exposed to ELF-EMF (75 Hz, 550 µT) for 6 h once for acute exposure. For chronic exposure, complete life cycle of fly, that is, egg to adult fly was exposed to ELF-EMF for 6 h daily. The effect of exposure on their crawling and climbing ability, longevity, development dynamics, cellular damage and oxidative stress (generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)) was evaluated.

RESULTS

The crawling ability of larvae was significantly (p < .05) reduced on acute (third stage instar larvae) as well as chronic exposure (F0 and F1 larvae). When locomotion of flies was tested using climbing assay, no alteration was observed in their climbing ability under both acute and chronic exposure; however, when their speed of climbing was compared, a significant decrease in speed of F1 flies was observed (p = .0027) on chronic exposure. The survivability of flies was significantly affected under chronic and acute exposure (at third stage instar larvae). In case of acute exposure of the third stage instar larvae, although all the flies were eclosed by the 17th day, there was a significant decline in the number of flies (p = .007) in comparison to control. While in case of chronic exposure apart from low number of flies eclosed in comparison to control, there was delay in eclosion by one day (p = .0004). Using trypan blue assay, the internal gut damage of third stage instar larvae was observed. Under acute exposure condition at third stage instar larvae, 30% larvae has taken up trypan blue, while only 10% larvae from acute exposure at adult stage. On chronic exposure, 50% larvae of the F1 generation have taken up trypan blue. On evaluation of oxidative stress, there is a significant rise in ROS in case of acute exposure at third stage instar larvae (p = .0004), adult fly stage (p = .0004) and chronic exposure (p = .0001).

CONCLUSION

ELF-EMF has maximum effects on acute exposure of third stage instar larvae and chronic exposure (egg to adult fly stage). These results suggest that electromagnetic radiations, though, have become indispensible part of our lives but they plausibly affect our health.

A 50 Hz magnetic field affects hemodynamics, ECG and vascular endothelial function in healthy adults: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Application of exposure to 50/60 Hz magnetic fields (MFs) has been conducted in the treatment of muscle pain and fatigue mainly in Japan. However, whether MFs could increase blood flow leading to muscle fatigue recovery has not been sufficiently tested. We investigated the acute effects of a 50 Hz sinusoidal MF at Bmax 180 mT on hemodynamics, electrocardiogram, and vascular endothelial function in healthy young men. Three types of regional exposures to a 50 Hz MF, i.e., forearm, upper arm, or neck exposure to MF were performed. Participants who received three types of real MF exposures had significantly increased ulnar arterial blood flow velocity compared to the sham exposures. Furthermore, after muscle loading exercise, MF exposure recovered hemoglobin oxygenation index values faster and higher than sham exposure from the loading condition. Moreover, participants who received real MF exposure in the neck region had significantly increased parasympathetic high-frequency activity relative to the sham exposure. The MF exposure in the upper arm region significantly increased the brachial artery flow-mediated dilation compared to the sham exposure. Computer simulations of induced in situ electric fields indicated that the order-of-magnitude estimates of the peak values were 100-500 mV/m, depending on the exposure conditions. This study provides the first evidence that a 50 Hz MF can activate parasympathetic activity and thereby lead to increase vasodilation and blood flow via a nitric oxide-dependent mechanism. Trial registration: UMIN Clinical Trial Registry (CTR) UMIN000038834. The authors confirm that all ongoing and related trials for this drug/intervention are registered.

Manmade Electromagnetic Fields and Oxidative Stress-Biological Effects and Consequences for Health

Concomitant with the ever-expanding use of electrical appliances and mobile communication systems, public and occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) in the extremely-low-frequency and radiofrequency range has become a widely debated environmental risk factor for health. Radiofrequency (RF) EMF and extremely-low-frequency (ELF) MF have been classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), potentially leading to cellular or systemic oxidative stress, was frequently found to be influenced by EMF exposure in animals and cells. In this review, we summarize key experimental findings on oxidative stress related to EMF exposure from animal and cell studies of the last decade. The observations are discussed in the context of molecular mechanisms and functionalities relevant to health such as neurological function, genome stability, immune response, and reproduction. Most animal and many cell studies showed increased oxidative stress caused by RF-EMF and ELF-MF. In order to estimate the risk for human health by manmade exposure, experimental studies in humans and epidemiological studies need to be considered as well.

Evaluation of the neuroprotective effects of Vitamin E on the rat substantia nigra neural cells exposed to electromagnetic field: An ultrastructural study

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) could induce oxidative stress (OS) in human tissues. Lipid peroxidation (LPO) is the main hallmark of OS that harms neural cell components, primarily lipids in the myelin sheaths and membranes. Vitamin E is a lipophilic antioxidant that protects cells from OS-related damages and inhibits the LPO process. In this study, male rats were assigned into three groups of Control, EMF, and EMF+ Vitamin E. The EMF producer equipment produced an alternate current of 50 Hz, 3 Mili Tesla (mT). At the end of the experiment, half of the substantia nigra in every sample was used for measurement of the malondialdehyde (MDA) level as the end-product of the LPO and activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme. The next half of the tissue was prepared for transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In the EMF group, MDA level was enhanced and SOD value decreased significantly compared to the control group, but Vitamin E could restore these changes. In rats undergone EMF, heterochromatic nucleus and destruction in some portions of the nuclear membrane were detected. The segmental separation or destruction of myelin sheath lamellae was observed in nerve fibers. In treated animals, the nucleus was round, less heterochromatic, with a regular membrane. Separation of myelin sheath lamellae in some nerve fibers was slighter than the radiation group. Considering the results, EMF exposure induces LPO and triggers ultrastructural changes in the cell membranes, nucleus, and myelin sheath of substantia nigra cells, but Vitamin E consumption weakens these neuropathological alterations.

Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Field as a Stress Factor-Really Detrimental?-Insight into Literature from the Last Decade

Biological effects of extremely low-frequency magnetic field (ELF-MF) and its consequences on human health have become the subject of important and recurrent public debate. ELF-MF evokes cell/organism responses that are characteristic to a general stress reaction, thus it can be regarded as a stress factor. Exposure to ELF-MF "turns on" different intracellular mechanisms into both directions: compensatory or deleterious ones. ELF-MF can provoke morphological and physiological changes in stress-related systems, mainly nervous, hormonal, and immunological ones. This review summarizes the ELF-MF-mediated changes at various levels of the organism organization. Special attention is placed on the review of literature from the last decade. Most studies on ELF-MF effects concentrate on its negative influence, e.g., impairment of behavior towards depressive and anxiety disorders; however, in the last decade there was an increase in the number of research studies showing stimulating impact of ELF-MF on neuroplasticity and neurorehabilitation. In the face of numerous studies on the ELF-MF action, it is necessary to systematize the knowledge for a better understanding of the phenomenon, in order to reduce the risk associated with the exposure to this factor and to recognize the possibility of using it as a therapeutic agent.

Electromagnetic Fields Ameliorate Insulin Resistance and Hepatic Steatosis by Modulating Redox Homeostasis and SREBP-1c Expression in db/db Mice

PURPOSE

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which has recently become known as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), has risen. However, pharmacotherapies for this disease have not been approved. Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) have excellent bioeffects on multiple diseases. However, the effects of EMFs on NAFLD are unknown. This study investigated the bioeffects of EMF exposure on insulin resistance, liver redox homeostasis and hepatic steatosis in db/db mice.

METHODS

Animals were sacrificed after EMF exposure for 8 weeks. The fasting blood glucose and insulin levels in the serum were tested. The homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated by a formula. The levels of MDA, GSSG and GSH, biomarkers of redox, were assessed. The activities of CAT, SOD and GSH-Px were assessed. The body and liver weights were measured. Hepatic lipid accumulation was observed by Oil Red O staining. Hepatic CAT, GR, GSH-Px, SOD1, SOD2 and SREBP-1 expression was determined by Western blotting.

RESULTS

EMF exposure ameliorated insulin resistance and oxidative stress in the liver by downregulating the MDA and GSSG levels, increasing the reduced GSH levels, and promoting the GSH-Px levels in db/db mice. In addition, liver weight and triglyceride (TG) levels were reduced by EMF exposure. Simultaneously, EMF exposure improved hepatic steatosis by downregulating the protein expression of SREBP-1c.

CONCLUSION

The present findings suggest that EMF exposure has positive effects in the treatment of NAFLD.

Short ELF-EMF Exposure Targets SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling in THP-1 Cells

Extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) have been known to modulate inflammatory responses by targeting signal transduction pathways and influencing cellular redox balance through the generation of oxidants and antioxidants. Here, we studied the molecular mechanism underlying the anti-oxidative effect of ELF-EMF in THP-1 cells, particularly with respect to antioxidant enzymes, such as heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), regulated transcriptionally through nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation. Cells treated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were exposed to a 50 Hz, 1 mT extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields for 1 h, 6 h and, 24 h. Our results indicate that ELF-EMF induced HO-1 mRNA and protein expression in LPS-treated THP-1 cells, with peak expression at 6 h, accompanied with a concomitant migration to the nucleus of a truncated HO-1 protein form. The immunostaining analysis further verified a nuclear enrichment of HO-1. Moreover, ELF-EMF inhibited the protein expressions of the sirtuin1 (SIRT1) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) pathways, confirming their anti-inflammatory/antioxidative role. Pretreatment with LY294002 (Akt inhibitor) and PD980559 (ERK inhibitor) inhibited LPS-induced Nrf2 nuclear translocation and HO-1 protein expression in ELF-EMF-exposed cells. Taken together, our results suggest that short ELF-EMF exposure exerts a protective role in THP-1 cells treated with an inflammatory/oxidative insult such as LPS, via the regulation of Nrf-2/HO-1 and SIRT1 /NF-kB pathways associated with intracellular glutathione (GSH) accumulation.

Oxidative stress associated with long term occupational exposure to extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields

BACKGROUND

Occupational exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) may have harmful effects on biologic systems and has raised many concerns in the last decades.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of exposure to extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities.

METHODS

This study was conducted on 115 power plant workers as the exposed group and 145 office workers as the non-exposed group. The levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (Cat), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured in the serum of all subjects. Exposure to ELF-EMFs was measured based on spot measurements and the IEEE Std C95.3.1 standard.

RESULTS

The levels of MDA, SOD, and Cat in the exposed group were significantly higher than in the non-exposed group. However, the level of TAC was not significantly different between the exposed (2.45±1.02) and non-exposed (2.21±1.07) groups. The levels of MDA and SOD were higher among workers with higher exposure to electric fields than workers with low exposure. All oxidative stress indicators increased with increased exposure to magnetic fields, except TAC.

CONCLUSIONS

The antioxidant system imbalance among power plant workers may be related to long term occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields.

Safety parameters of in vivo low-energy shock waves and their impact on adult rat testes

Low-energy shock waves (LESWs) have been widely used in the intervention of a subset of diseased tissues and organs with good results. However, it is unclear whether they can be used directly to intervene in the testes. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine a relatively safe energy density and impulse number for rat testes. A total of 176 male rats were randomly and equally assigned to different intervention groups. Among them, 144 rats were assigned to 18 shock subgroups with different energy densities (0.02, 0.04 and 0.06 mJ/mm²), different impulse numbers (500, 1000 and 1500 impulses) and different shock periods (2 and 8 weeks). The remaining 32 rats were divided into the sham intervention (S) groups and the blank control (N) groups with observation periods of 2 weeks and 8 weeks. One day after the last LESWs intervention, all the rats were weighed, and the concentrations of reproductive endocrine hormones were measured, the semen quality and testicular tissue oxidative stress levels were analyzed, and histomorphology and ultrastructures were observed. We found that there were no significant differences in the whole-body physiological state, testicular tissue morphology, oxidative stress state and sperm quality between the L1 shock group and the corresponding S group and N group (all p˃0.05, respectively). However, the other parameters of the shock groups caused different degrees of damage to the structure and function of rat testes, and the whole-body physiological state was also adversely affected. This study demonstrated that LESWs with an energy density of 0.02 mJ/mm² and 500 impulses had no adverse effects on the rat testes.

Induction of apoptosis and ferroptosis by a tumor suppressing magnetic field through ROS-mediated DNA damage

Magnetic field (MF) is being used in antitumor treatment; however, the underlying biological mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, the potency and mechanism of a previously published tumor suppressing MF exposure protocol were further investigated. This protocol, characterized as a 50 Hz electromagnetic field modulated by static MF with time-average intensity of 5.1 mT, when applied for 2 h daily for over 3 consecutive days, selectively inhibited the growth of a broad spectrum of tumor cell lines including lung cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer and nephroblastoma. The level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased shortly after field exposure and persisted. Subsequently, pronounced DNA damage and activation of DNA repair pathways were identified both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, use of free radical scavenger alleviated DNA damage and partially reduced cell death. Finally, this field was found to inhibit cell proliferation, and simultaneously induced two types of programmed cell death, apoptosis and ferroptosis. In conclusion, this tumor suppressing MF could determine cell fate through ROS-induced DNA damage, inducing oxidative stress and activation of the DNA damage repair pathways, eventually lead to apoptosis and ferroptosis, as well as inhibition of tumor growth.

The effect of vitamin E and C on comet assay indices and apoptosis in power plant workers: A double blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields have been classified as a possible human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and this has raised some concern about its health effects on employees extensively exposed to these fields at thermal power plants. In this study, the effect of using vitamin E and C supplements have been examined on employees working at a thermal power plant. In this randomized controlled, double-blind clinical trial, 81 employees from different parts of the thermal power plant were enrolled between July and November 2017, and divided into four groups: Group 1 received vitamin E (400 units/day), Group 2: vitamin C (1000 mg/day), Group 3: vitamin E + C and Group 4: no intervention. DNA damage was measured in peripheral blood lymphocytes using comet assay and apoptosis, using flow cytometry. Based on the results, tail intensity and tail length in the vitamin E group, and all comet assay indices in the vitamin E + C and vitamin C groups (except DNA damage index) significantly decreased after the intervention, while the comet assay indices did not change significantly in the control group. None of the flow cytometry indices including early apoptosis, late apoptosis and necrosis changed after intervention in either group. The use of antioxidant vitamins such as E and C, can increase the activity of the non-enzymatic antioxidant defense system, and protect DNA from damage caused by exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields. But, taking these vitamins has no effect on apoptosis. It seems that consumption of vitamin E affected all investigated comet assay indices and can be probably considered as the best intervention.

Geobacter sulfurreducens-inoculated bioelectrochemical system reveals the potential of metabolic current in defining the effect of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field on living cells

The effect of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs) on human health has become a worldwide concern, and no molecule/factor has been established as a measurable indicator of this effect. Diseases related to ELF-EMF are generally accompanied with energy metabolic dysfunction, and the energy in metabolism often flows in terms of electrons in all living cells. Hence, this study specifically investigated the relationship between metabolic current and ELF-EMF. By applying 0-128 Gauss ELF-EMFs to Geobacter sulfurreducens-inoculated bioelectrochemical systems, we found that metabolic current was increased and oscillated in ELF-EMF-exposed G. sulfurreducens. All effects were exposure dose dependent. Moreover, the oscillation amplitude varied linearly with the ELF-EMF strength. These results reveal that metabolic current can be used as a dosimetric indicator of the effect of ELF-EMF on living organisms, including human beings.

Lipidomic alteration and stress-defense mechanism of soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans in response to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field exposure

To assess the impacts of man-made extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) on soil ecosystems, the soil nematode was applied as a biological indicator to characterize ecotoxicity of ELF-EMF. In this paper, a soil-living model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) was exposed to 50 Hz, 3 mT ELF-EMF. The integrated lipidome, proteome and transcriptome analysis were applied to elucidate physiological acclimations. Lipidomic analysis showed that ELF-EMF exposure induced significant alterations of 64 lipids, including significant elevation of triacylglycerols (TGs). Proteome results implied 157 changed protein expressions under ELF-EMF exposure. By transcriptomic analysis, 456 differently expressed genes were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) function and pathway analyses showed lipidomic alteration, mitochondrial dysfunction and the stress defense responses following ELF-EMF exposure in C. elegans. Conjoint analysis of proteome and transcriptome data showed that a higher expression of genes (sip-1, mtl-1 and rpl-11.1, etc.) were involved in stress defense responses to ELF-EMF exposure. These results indicated that ELF-EMF can induce effects on soil nematodes, mainly through disturbing lipid metabolism such as increasing TGs content, and eliciting stress defense responses. This study provided a new understanding in ELF-EMF exposure effects on soil nematodes and suggested a potential way of interpreting ELF-EMF influences on soil ecosystems.

Role of Mitochondria in the Oxidative Stress Induced by Electromagnetic Fields: Focus on Reproductive Systems

Modern technologies relying on wireless communication systems have brought increasing levels of electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure. This increased research interest in the effects of these radiations on human health. There is compelling evidence that EMFs affect cell physiology by altering redox-related processes. Considering the importance of redox milieu in the biological competence of oocyte and sperm, we reviewed the existing literature regarding the effects of EMFs on reproductive systems. Given the role of mitochondria as the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), we focused on the hypothesis of a mitochondrial basis of EMF-induced reproductive toxicity. MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus database were examined for peer-reviewed original articles by searching for the following keywords: “extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs),” “radiofrequency (RF),” “microwaves,” “Wi-Fi,” “mobile phone,” “oxidative stress,” “mitochondria,” “fertility,” “sperm,” “testis,” “oocyte,” “ovarian follicle,” and “embryo.” These keywords were combined with other search phrases relevant to the topic. Although we reported contradictory data due to lack of uniformity in the experimental designs, a growing body of evidence suggests that EMF exposure during spermatogenesis induces increased ROS production associated with decreased ROS scavenging activity. Numerous studies revealed the detrimental effects of EMFs from mobile phones, laptops, and other electric devices on sperm quality and provide evidence for extensive electron leakage from the mitochondrial electron transport chain as the main cause of EMF damage. In female reproductive systems, the contribution of oxidative stress to EMF-induced damages and the evidence of mitochondrial origin of ROS overproduction are reported, as well. In conclusion, mitochondria seem to play an important role as source of ROS in both male and female reproductive systems under EMF exposure. Future and more standardized studies are required for a better understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying EMF potential challenge to our reproductive system in order to improve preventive strategies.

Zinc Sulphate Mediates the Stimulation of Cell Proliferation of Rat Adipose Tissue-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Under High Intensity of EMF Exposure

Unlike the role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in regenerative medicine, their application in cell therapy can be complicated by factors such as a reduction in the proliferation potential, senescent tendency of MSCs to expand, and an age-dependent decline in their number and functions. It was shown that there is an association between exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and response to stress, cell proliferation, aging, and cell death. Furthermore, the zinc ion, as an essential trace element, was reported to be involved in the regulation of the growth and cell proliferation. In this report, ratadipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (rADSCs) were randomly divided into four groups-group I (control without any ZnSO₄ and EMF); group II (ZnSO₄ treatment without EMF exposed); group III (EMF exposed without ZnSO₄); and group ІV (EMF exposed with ZnSO₄)-to evaluate whether 0.14 μg/ml Zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄) could affect cell proliferation of rADSCs under extremely low frequency-electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF). The methyl thiazoltetrazolium (MTT) method was used to determine the cell proliferation of rADSCs following exposure to ELF-EMF in the presence of ZnSO₄. The immunocytochemistry method as well as flow-cytometry was used to identify the cell surface markers. Next, oil red O, alizarin red, toluidine blue, and cresyl violet staining was done to evaluate the adipogenic, osteogenic, chondrogenic, and neurogenic differentiation of rADSCs as the pluripotent capacity of rADSCs, respectively. The results showed that an exposure to ELF-EMF caused a decrease in the proliferation of rADSCs. However, the ZnSO₄ supplementation significantly increased the cell proliferation of ELF-EMF-exposed rADSCs. In addition, in the presence of 0.14 μg/ml ZnSO₄, rADSCs appeared to be growing faster than the control group and ZnSO₄ significantly decreased the doubling time of ELF-EMF-exposed rADSCs. It seems that ZnSO₄ would be a good element to induce the cell proliferation of ELF-EMF-exposed rADSCs.

Extremely low frequency electromagnetic field exposure and restraint stress induce changes on the brain lipid profile of Wistar rats

Background

Exposure to electromagnetic fields can affect human health, damaging tissues and cell homeostasis. Stress modulates neuronal responses and composition of brain lipids. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of chronic extremely low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) exposure, restraint stress (RS) or both (RS + ELF-EMF) on lipid profile and lipid peroxidation in Wistar rat brain.

Methods

Twenty-four young male Wistar rats were allocated into four groups: control, RS, ELF-EMF exposure, and RS + ELF-EMF for 21 days. After treatment, rats were euthanized, the blood was obtained for quantitate plasma corticosterone concentration and their brains were dissected in cortex, cerebellum and subcortical structures for cholesterol, triacylglycerols, total free fatty acids, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) analysis. In addition, fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) were identified by gas chromatography.

Results

Increased values of plasma corticosterone were found in RS and ELF-EMF exposed groups (p < 0.05), this effect was higher in RS + ELF-EMF group (p < 0.05, vs. control group). Chronic ELF-EMF exposure increased total lipids in cerebellum, and total cholesterol in cortex, but decreased polar lipids in cortex. In subcortical structures, increased concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids were observed in RS + ELF-EMF group. FAMEs analysis revealed a decrease of polyunsaturated fatty acids of cerebellum and increases of subcortical structures in the ELF-EMF exposed rats. TBARS concentration in lipids was increased in all treated groups compared to control group, particularly in cortex and cerebellum regions.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that chronic exposure to ELF-EMF is similar to physiological stress, and induce changes on brain lipid profile.

Extremely Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields and Redox-Responsive Pathways Linked to Cancer Drug Resistance: Insights from Co-Exposure-Based In Vitro Studies

Electrical devices currently used in clinical practice and common household equipments generate extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) that were classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as “possible carcinogenic.” Assuming that ELF-MF plays a role in the carcinogenic process without inducing direct genomic alterations, ELF-MF may be involved in the promotion or progression of cancers. In particular, ELF-MF-induced responses are suspected to activate redox-responsive intracellular signaling or detoxification scavenging systems. In fact, improved protection against oxidative stress and redox-active xenobiotics is thought to provide critical proliferative and survival advantage in tumors. On this basis, an ever-growing research activity worldwide is attempting to establish whether tumor cells may develop multidrug resistance through the activation of essential cytoprotective networks in the presence of ELF fields, and how this might trigger relevant changes in tumor phenotype. This review builds a framework around how the activity of redox-responsive mediators may be controlled by co-exposure to ELF-MF and reactive oxygen species-generating agents in tumor and cancer cells, in order to clarify whether and how such potential molecular targets could help to minimize or neutralize the functional interaction between ELF-MF and malignancies.

Magnetic Fields and Reactive Oxygen Species

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) ubiquitously exist in mammalian cells to participate in various cellular signaling pathways. The intracellular ROS levels are dependent on the dynamic balance between ROS generation and elimination. In this review, we summarize reported studies about the influences of magnetic fields (MFs) on ROS levels. Although in most cases, MFs increased ROS levels in human, mouse, rat cells, and tissues, there are also studies showing that ROS levels were decreased or not affected by MFs. Multiple factors could cause these discrepancies, including but not limited to MF type/intensity/frequency, exposure time and assay time-point, as well as different biological samples examined. It will be necessary to investigate the influences of different MFs on ROS in various biological samples systematically and mechanistically, which will be helpful for people to get a more complete understanding about MF-induced biological effects. In addition, reviewing the roles of MFs in ROS modulation may open up new scenarios of MF application, which could be further and more widely adopted into clinical applications, particularly in diseases that ROS have documented pathophysiological roles.

Power frequency magnetic field promotes a more malignant phenotype in neuroblastoma cells via redox-related mechanisms

In accordance with the classification of the International Agency for Research on Cancer, extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) are suspected to promote malignant progression by providing survival advantage to cancer cells through the activation of critical cytoprotective pathways. Among these, the major antioxidative and detoxification defence systems might be targeted by ELF-MF by conferring cells significant resistance against clinically-relevant cytotoxic agents. We investigated whether the hyperproliferation that is induced in SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells by a 50 Hz, 1 mT ELF magnetic field was supported by improved defence towards reactive oxygen species (ROS) and xenobiotics, as well as by reduced vulnerability against both H2O2 and anti-tumor ROS-generating drug doxorubicin. ELF-MF induced a proliferative and survival advantage by activating key redox-responsive antioxidative and detoxification cytoprotective pathways that are associated with a more aggressive behavior of neuroblastoma cells. This was coupled with the upregulation of the major sirtuins, as well as with increased signaling activity of the erythroid 2-related nuclear transcription factor 2 (NRF2). Interestingly, we also showed that the exposure to 50 Hz MF as low as 100 µT may still be able to alter behavior and responses of cancer cells to clinically-relevant drugs.

Quantum mechanical model for the anticarcinogenic effect of extremely-low-frequency electromagnetic fields on early chemical hepatocarcinogenesis

Using the conventional Haberkorn approach, it is evaluated the recombination of the radical pair (RP) singlet spin state to study theoretically the cytoprotective effect of an extremely-low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) on early stages of hepatic cancer chemically induced in rats. The proposal is that ELF-EMF modulates the interconversion rate of singlet and triplet spin states of the RP populations modifying the products from the metabolization of carcinogens. Previously, we found that the daily treatment with ELF-EMF 120 Hz inhibited the number and area of preneoplastic lesions in chemical carcinogenesis. The singlet spin population is evaluated diagonalizing the spin density matrix through the Lanczos method in a radical pair mechanism (RPM). Using four values of the interchange energy, we have studied the variations over the singlet population. The low magnetic field effect as a test of the influence over the enzymatic chemical reaction is evaluated calculating the quantum yield. Through a bootstrap technique the range is found for the singlet decay rate for the process. Applying the quantum measurements concept, we addressed the impact toward hepatic cells. The result contributes to improving our understanding of the chemical carcinogenesis process affected by charged particles that damage the DNA.