Effects of Power-Frequency Magnetic Field Exposure on B-Cell Differentiation From Human Hematopoietic Stem/Progenitor Cells

Abstract

Overview

The study primarily investigates the implications of power-frequency magnetic fields (MFs) on the differentiation of human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) into B-cell lineages, considering the context of childhood leukemia.

Methodology

• A differentiation protocol was optimized in vitro, where human HSPCs were exposed to 300 mT of 50 Hz MF for 35 days.
• The experiments were conducted blind to ensure unbiased outcomes.

Findings

The study found no significant alterations in the differentiation process of myeloid or lymphoid cells, including pro-B to immature-B cells, and similar gene expression levels between the MF-exposed and control groups.

Conclusion

The exposure of HSPCs to 50 Hz MF at 300 mT did not seem to affect early B-cell differentiation or the expression of recombination-activating genes RAG1 and RAG2. The implications on childhood leukemia, particularly in children under preleukemic states, are further discussed to highlight the importance of continuing research in this area.