Abstract

Overview

Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) has differential impacts on cellular behavior and morphology depending on the cell type and its biological state. This study investigates these effects using a newly developed ELF-EMF system which addresses many limitations of existing systems.

Methods

• A novel ELF-EMF System: Designed to study effects under optimal physiological conditions.
• Assessment Techniques: Apoptosis and cell counts with flow cytometry, cell survival via colony formation, and other cellular behaviors analyzed through various bioassays.

Findings

The response to ELF-EMF exposure varies with the type of cell:

• For DU145, HUVEC, and K562 cell lines, optimal responses were seen at 0.01 Hz.
• For MDA-MB-231 cells, the best response occurred at 1 Hz.
• Long-term exposure led to reduced proliferation in adherent cells, increased ROS levels, cell cycle arrest, and subsequent cell death.
• K562 cells showed induced autophagy and reduced cell numbers, suggesting differentiation.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that ELF-EMF can influence cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival, with these effects being specific to the cell's biological state and type. The novel ELF-EMF system developed could notably modify cellular behaviors, promoting advancements in understanding the biological implications of ELF-EMF exposures.