The HL-60 human promyelocytic cell line constitutes an effective in vitro model for evaluating toxicity, oxidative stress and necrosis/apoptosis after exposure to black carbon particles and 2.45 GHz radio frequency

Abstract

Overview

The cellular and molecular mechanisms by which atmospheric pollution from particulate matter and/or electromagnetic fields (EMFs) may prove harmful to human health have not been extensively researched. This study focuses on the combined effects of EMFs and black carbon (BC) particles on cell damage and apoptotic responses in the HL-60 promyelocytic cell line.

Findings

• Exposure to 2.45 GHz radio frequency (RF) and BC increases oxidative stress and the expression of the anti-apoptotic gene BCL2a.
• Both RF and BC induce significant cell damage within 24-48 hours of exposure, with an enhanced toxicity noticed upon combined exposure.
• Oxidative-antioxidant action within cellular mechanisms such as mitochondrial pathways shows activation of anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic gene expressions impacting cell survival outcomes.
• Various types of cell death, including necrosis and mitochondria-caspase dependent apoptosis, were triggered, providing insights into potential antimicrobial and immune responses in humans.

Conclusion

Significant cellular changes were observed in the HL-60 cell line when exposed to combined RF and BC, underlining the pernicious effects of electromagnetic fields and black carbon on human health. These findings highlight a critical need for further investigation on EMFs' health risks, including their role in immune system modulation.