Molecular Biological Effects of Weak Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields: Frequency-Amplitude Efficiency Windows and Possible Mechanisms

Abstract

Overview

This review comprehensively discusses the biological resonances elicited by low-frequency magnetic fields (LFMF), tracing the historical advances and notable biophysical models in magnetobiology.

Core Models

Two predominant theories are outlined:

• The first theory focuses on ion-cofactors of proteins being the primary influences under LFMF.
• The second considers the magnetic moments of particles in biomolecules as vital influence points.

Cell Type Dependency & Mechanisms

The dependence of these resonance-like effects on cell type is highlighted, emphasizing the variability in response among different biological systems.

A detailed explanation is given on the radical-pair mechanism, particularly through the lens of cryptochrome, illustrating how LFMF impacts biochemical processes.

Proposed Model

A robust model suggests how LFMF interacts with radical pairs in biochemical oscillators, elucidating the phenomenon of frequency-amplitude efficiency windows observed with LFMF.

Conclusion

This work strengthens the understanding of how weak magnetic fields at low frequencies can influence biological systems, underpinning health risk concerns associated with electromagnetic field exposure.