Impact of high (1950 MHz) and extremely low (50 Hz) frequency electromagnetic fields on DNA damage caused by occupationally relevant exposures in human derived cell lines

Abstract

Overview

Epidemiological studies have linked electromagnetic fields (EMFs) with cancer risks in humans. This study investigates the impact of both high frequency (1950 MHz UMTS signal) and low frequency (50 Hz) EMFs on DNA stability and damage within two human-derived cell lines.

Methodology and Findings

• We evaluated the effects of high frequency EMFs on an astrocytoma cell line (1321N1) and the effects of low frequency EMFs on a lymphoma cell line (Jurkat).
• The study involved co-exposure experiments where cells were subjected to both EMF exposure and treatment with known mutagens such as 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4NQO) and benzo[a]pyrene diolepoxide (BPDE).
• DNA damage was assessed using single cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assays.
• Results indicated a moderate reduction in basal and 4NQO-induced DNA damage in the astrocytoma line. However, there were no significant changes in chemically induced DNA migration in other experimental setups.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that acute exposures to specific mobile phone and power line EMFs do not enhance the genotoxic effects caused by chemicals relevant to occupational exposures.