Abstract

Abstract

Overview

With the advent of ultra-high-voltage (UHV) direct-current (DC) transmissions, public concerns have been heightening regarding the health impacts associated with static electric fields (SEF) emitted from overhead UHV DC transmission lines.

Findings

• The study investigated the effects of 56.3kV/m SEF exposure on the spleen in mice over a period of 21 days.
• Significant increases were observed in the malonic dialdehyde content and activities of superoxide dismutase, calcineurin, and nitric oxide synthase (NOS).
• Exposure also elevated mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB).
• Morphological changes in spleen lymphocytes included separation of nucleus and nuclear membrane, disappearance of mitochondrial membrane, and deficiency in mitochondrial cristae.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that SEF exposure could induce oxidative stress in the spleen by increasing NOS activity, potentially leading to inflammation and significant cellular structural damage. This highlights a critical health risk associated with environmental electromagnetic exposure from UHV DC transmission lines.