Exposure to a static magnetic field attenuates hepatic damage and function abnormality in obese and diabetic mice

Abstract

Overview

Static magnetic fields (SMFs) are increasingly recognized for their potential benefits in healthcare settings. However, the specific effects of SMF on hepatic metabolism, particularly in the context of obesity and diabetes, have remained underexplored.

Methods and Findings

• Mice suffering from high-fat diet-induced obesity and diabetes were subjected to a moderate-intensity SMF (0.4-0.7 T, direction: upward, 4 hours/day, over 8 weeks).
• The study found that SMF exposure significantly reduced hepatic inflammation and fibrosis without improving glucose/insulin tolerance.
• It regulated several metabolic proteins and genes like GLUT1, GLUT4, G6pc, and Pdk4, crucial for glucose metabolism.
• SMF was also found to decrease lipid accumulation and regulate lipid metabolism, enhancing the expression of PPARγ and C/EBPα in obese mice.
• Moreover, the treatment helped in reducing liver iron deposition and systemic iron homeostasis through BMP6-mediated regulation of hepcidin.
• There were improvements in hepatic redox balance, mitochondrial function, and the activation of MAPKs/Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.
• Finally, SMF stimulated hepatic autophagy and enhanced lipophagy by upregulating PNPLA2 expression.

Conclusion

The data strongly suggest that SMF has a therapeutic potential in mitigating hepatic injury in obese and diabetic conditions by modulating multiple metabolic pathways and improving overall liver function.