Effects of extremely low-frequency magnetic fields on human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells: proteomic characterization

Authors: Lazzarini R, Eléxpuru-Zabaleta M, Piva F, Giulietti M, Fulgenzi G, Tartaglione MF, Zingaretti L, Tagliabracci A, Valentino M, Santarelli L, Bracci M

Year: 2023 Feb 16

Category: Ecotoxicology

Journal: Ecotoxicol Environ Saf

Institution: Ecotoxicol Environ Saf

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.114650

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36805133

Abstract

Overview

Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-MF), commonly set at 50 Hz, 1 mT for 4 hours, have demonstrated various effects on human MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and control human breast cells (MCF-10A).

ELF-MF can modify cell viability and regulatory processes in breast cancer cells.
The role of ELF-MF in breast cancer cannot be excluded given its multifactorial nature.

Findings

MDA-MB-231 cells exposed to ELF-MF exhibited:

Increase in cell viability and live cell numbers.
Enhanced density and length of filopodia compared to unexposed cells.
Elevated mitochondrial ROS levels and altered mitochondrial morphology.
Changes in the proteomic profile with altered expression of 328 proteins.
Up-regulation of genes associated with focal adhesion and mitochondrion, influencing cellular reprogramming, adhesion, migration, and invasion abilities.

Proteomic analysis, corroborated by Real Time PCR, indicated a distinct regulation of transcription factors in cancer cells versus controls post-exposure.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the potential influence of ELF-MF on key biological properties and signaling pathways in breast cells, underlining the need for further research into its role in breast cancer development and progression.

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