Inhibition of mitochondrial calcium uptake by Ru360 enhances the effect of 1800 MHz radio-frequency electromagnetic fields on DNA damage

Authors: Sun C, Zhu L, Qin H, Su H, Zhang J, Wang S, Xu X, Zhao Z, Mao G, Chen J.

Year: 2023 Sep 14

Category: Ecotoxicology

Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115472

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0147651323009764

Abstract

Overview

The study addresses the pervasive issue of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF), emitted from common devices like cell phones and base stations, which have been flagged as potential cytotoxins and supposed risk factors for various human diseases. The research investigates the interference of mitochondrial calcium uptake by using a mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) inhibitor, Ru360, potentially used in clinical treatments for diseases such as neurodegeneration and cancer.

Findings

  • Application of MCU inhibitor Ru360 enhances RF-EMF-induced DNA damage in mouse embryonic fibroblasts following short-term exposure.
  • Significant DNA damage and cell apoptosis observed with just 15 minutes of RF-EMF exposure at 1800 MHz in Ru360 treated cells, whereas no notable effects on cell cycle, cell proliferation, or cell viability were detected.
  • Interestingly, DNA damage induced by such exposures was found to be quickly repairable within an hour post-exposure.

Conclusion

The paper concludes that inhibiting mitochondrial calcium uptake increases the genotoxicity of RF-EMF exposure, suggesting additional health risks that require further attention and evaluation, amid growing EMC exposure from everyday technology.

RF-EMF DNA damage mitochondrial calcium Ruthenium 360 genotoxicity
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