Effects of an electric field on sleep quality and life span mediated by ultraviolet (UV)-A/blue light photoreceptor CRYPTOCHROME in Drosophila

Abstract

Overview

The study focuses on the effects of electric fields (EF) on biological systems, specifically using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism.

Findings

• Exposure to a 50-Hz, 35 kV/m constant electric field during the day time improved the sleep quality of wild type (WT) flies.
• This effect was not seen in cryptochrome mutant (cryb) flies or during nighttime exposure.
• Under low nutrient conditions, the lifespan of WT flies increased by approximately 18% upon exposure to the 50-Hz electric field, but not in various cryptochrome mutants.
• Metabolome analysis revealed higher ATP levels in intact WT flies exposed to the electric field compared to cry gene mutant strains.
• CRYPTOCHROME (CRY), a magnetoreceptor protein and UV-A/blue light photoreceptor, is implicated as an electric field receptor in animals.

Conclusion

The study suggests genetic evidence supporting a CRY-based sensitivity to electric fields in animals, highlighting potential health risks and interactions at the molecular level under specific environmental exposures.