Evaluation of in vivo exposure to ELF magnetic fields on plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in rats

Abstract

Overview

This study investigates the effects of exposure to extremely low-frequency magnetic fields (ELF-MFs) on the immune response and the potential link to neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting the importance of further laboratory investigations into these phenomena.

Materials and Methods

• Subjects: Male Wistar rats.
• Exposure: Rats were exposed to a sinusoidal ELF-MF (50 Hz, 7 mT) for 1 h/day for 7 days or continuously for 24 h.
• Control: Control groups were sham exposed under the same conditions.
• Data Collection: Plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Hematological parameters were analyzed immediately after sample collection using an automatic hematology analyzer.

Findings

• A significant increase in plasma IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-2 levels was observed following a 24-hour continuous exposure.
• Significant elevations in blood parameters such as white blood cells, lymphocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit levels were noted.
• No significant changes were detected in cytokine levels or hematological counts after repetitive exposure for 1 hour per day over 7 days.

Conclusion

The findings support that the duration of exposure to ELF-MFs considerably affects immune response at a cellular level. Noteworthy is that while a single, intensive exposure disrupts immune function indicators, regular short exposures do not pose the same risk, indicating dose-response relationships critical in understanding ELF-MF impact on health.