Effects of pulse-modulated radiofrequency magnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure on apoptosis, autophagy, oxidative stress and electron chain transport function in human neuroblastoma and murine microglial cells

Authors: Jana Zielinski, Angélique D. Ducray, Anja M. Moeller, Manuel Murbach, Niels Kuster, Meike Mevissen

Year: October 2020

Category: Toxicology

Journal: Toxicology in Vitro

DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2020.104963

URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0887233320305130

Abstract

Overview

The proliferation of body-worn wireless devices and diverse communication protocols has increased exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). This study investigates health risks associated with RF-EMF (935 MHz) exposure enveloped by extremely low-frequency (ELF) modulation on two types of cells.

Methodology

Murine microglial N9 cells and human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells exposed to 4 W/kg RF-EMF.
Control groups were sham-exposed.
Exposure durations were set at 2 and 24 hours.

Findings

Findings elucidate the cell- and duration-dependent responses of cells to RF-EMF:

No Change in Apoptosis: No significant change in apoptosis, living cell count, or apoptosis-inducing factor due to exposure.
Autophagy Variation: Changes in autophagy markers observed, particularly an increase after 24 hours in protein levels of ATG5 in SH-SY5Y cells.
Oxidative Stress: An increase in glutathione levels indicating oxidative stress in neuroblastoma cells subject to 24-hour exposure, contrary to safety standards suggesting potential long-term effects.

Conclusion

This study introduces imperative data on the cell-specific and time-dependent effects of RF-EMF on key biological processes. Given the transient increase in oxidative stress observed, further intensive research is crucial to determine underlying mechanisms and potential health risks, reinforcing the need for tight regulations and exposure guidelines.

RF-EMF apoptosis autophagy oxidative stress neurotoxicology cell biology

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