Selective induction of rapid cytotoxic effect in glioblastoma cells by oscillating magnetic fields

Abstract

Overview

The study explores the mechanisms behind the anticancer effects of electromagnetic fields, specifically through a device generating oscillating magnetic fields (OMF). This research is crucial due to the increasing usage of electromagnetic fields in treatment protocols, particularly in cancer therapy.

Methodology

• Introduction of a novel device, referred to as the Oncomagnetic Device, which employs rapidly rotating permanent magnets to generate OMF.
• Experiments conducted on patient-derived glioblastoma and lung cancer cells, alongside normal human tissues like cortical neurons and bronchial epithelial cells.
• Utilization of quantitative fluorescence microscopy to evaluate cell viability and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Findings

OMF was found to induce selective cytotoxic effects in glioblastoma cells by triggering caspase 3 activations, sparing normal tissue cells. A similar cytotoxic effect was noted in lung cancer cells, attributed principally to increased ROS in mitochondria due to disruptions in electron flow in respiratory chains.

Conclusion

The results affirm the potential of OMF generated by a newly developed noninvasive device in selectively killing cancer cells while not affecting normal tissues. This highlights a promising direction for electromagnetic field applications in cancer treatment.