ELF-MF exposure affects the robustness of epigenetic programming during granulopoiesis

Authors: Manser M, Sater MR, Schmid CD, Noreen F, Murbach M, Kuster N, Schuermann D, Schär P

Year: 2017 Mar 7

Category: Genetics / Hematology

Journal: Sci Rep

DOI: 10.1038/srep43345

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28266526

Abstract

Overview

Extremely-low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MF) are considered "possibly carcinogenic" to humans, particularly linked with an increased risk of childhood leukaemia. This study investigates the overarching effects of ELF-MF on the epigenetic regulation during cell differentiation.

Findings

  • Investigated the impact on epigenetic modifications in leukaemic Jurkat cells and human CD34+ haematopoietic stem cells.
  • Conducted genome-wide profiling during granulopoiesis to monitor changes in histone and DNA methylation states.
  • No statistically significant alterations were observed in active (H3K4me2) and repressive (H3K27me3) histone marks or DNA methylation due to ELF-MF.

Conclusion

Although no deterministic effects were noted, ELF-MF exposure may affect the consistency of epigenetic modifications during neutrophilic differentiation. These findings suggest a subtle yet potentially significant impact of ELF-MF on epigenetic stability, which may have broader implications for cellular differentiation processes.

ELF-MF epigenetics granulopoiesis carcinogenic leukaemia histone modification DNA methylation
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