Effect of electromagnetic field exposure on the transcription of repetitive DNA elements in human cells

Abstract

Overview

Recent studies have debunked the previous notion that Repetitive DNA (RE-DNA) is silent and inert. This research investigates the impact of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) on the transcription of RE-DNA, showing that it may be involved in human pathological effects.

Methodology

The study exposed three human cell lines (HeLa, BE(2)C, and SH-SY5Y) to 900 MHz GSM-modulated RF-EMF at a specific absorption rate of 1 W/kg, as well as to sham (control) conditions. Following exposure, mRNA levels of RE-DNA were analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR.

Findings

• Types of RE-DNA investigated included Long Interspersed Nucleotide Element 1, DNA alpha satellite, and Human Endogenous Retroviruses-like sequences.
• Exposure to RF-EMF led to varied transcriptional responses across different cell lines, underscoring the dependency of effects on cellular and tissue context.

Conclusion

The transcription of RE-DNA can be significantly affected by RF-EMF exposure, indicating potential underlying molecular mechanisms that may explain the associated health risks. Further research is required to clarify these mechanisms and the broad implications of RF-EMF on human health.