Abstract

Overview

A large body of evidence indicates that environmental agents can induce alterations in DNA methylation (DNAm) profiles. Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs), emitted by everyday devices, are classified as "possibly carcinogenic" and their biological effects remain unclear.

Methodology

We analyzed DNAm profiles in cervical cancer and neuroblastoma cell lines exposed to 900 MHz GSM-modulated RF-EMF. We used an Illumina-based targeted deep bisulfite sequencing approach to assess changes in long interspersed nuclear elements-1 (LINE-1), Alu short interspersed nuclear elements, and ribosomal repeats.

Findings

• Radiofrequency exposure did not affect the DNAm of Alu elements in any cell line.
• It influenced DNAm of LINE-1 and ribosomal repeats;
  - These effects varied across different cell lines.
• Emerging evidence suggests EMFs can alter molecular energy levels, affecting concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may influence DNAm patterns. However, this mechanism was not evaluated directly in this study.

Conclusion

RF-EMF exposure can potentially alter DNAm of LINE-1 and ribosomal DNA, which are significant components of the human genome. These effects depend on the cellular context. Further investigates on the epigenetic effects of RF-EMF are crucial for a better understanding of its risks and to enhance safety assessments.