Evaluation of frequency magnetic field, static field, and Temozolomide on viability, free radical production and gene expression (p53) in the human glioblastoma cell line (A172)

Abstract

Overview

With an anticipated 21.7 million new cancer cases and 13 million deaths by 2030, understanding and combating cancer remains a global priority. Glioblastoma, the most aggressive primary brain tumor in adults, continues to challenge medical science, as it is lethal and has an average survival time of only 14 months post-diagnosis despite conventional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Findings

• The study explores the interactions between frequency magnetic fields (FMF), static magnetic fields (SMF), and the chemotherapeutic agent Temozolomide (TMZ) in the treatment of glioblastoma.
• Specific experimental conditions were FMF (10 Hz, 50 G) and SMF (50 G), combined with Temozolomide (200 μM).
• Methods employed included viability assays (MTT), nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) tests for radical production, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and Western blot for p53 protein expression assessment in glioblastoma cells.
• The combined treatment showed increased cytotoxicity, enhanced free radical production, and p53 protein expression, suggesting a potential for improved therapeutic strategies through the integration of EMF exposure with chemotherapy.

Conclusion

The addition of electromagnetic fields (both FMF and SMF) to Temozolomide treatment has demonstrated a significant increase in cytotoxic effects in glioblastoma treatment strategies, highlighting a promising avenue for future cancer therapy enhancements.