Abstract

Overview

Exposure to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-MFs) is known to elicit various biological effects, including potential carcinogenic outcomes. The biological mechanisms through which ELF-MFs impact cellular systems remain largely undeciphered.

Purpose

The study investigates whether reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in the clustering of epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) on cell membranes, triggered by a specific 50-Hz magnetic field (MF).

Materials and Methods

• The experimental setup involved human amnion epithelial (FL) cells exposed to a 50-Hz MF, with treatments of either N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) or pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) to assess their effect.
• EGFR clustering analyzed using confocal microscopy following indirect immunofluorescence staining.
• Reactive oxygen species and acid sphingomyelinase (ASMase) activity were quantified using respective assay kits.

Findings

Exposure to 0.4 mT 50 Hz MF for 15 minutes significantly:

• Increased intracellular ROS levels,
• Induced EGFR clustering,
• Boosted ASMase activity.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that ROS mediate the 50 Hz MF-induced EGFR clustering through activation of ASMase, confirming a potential pathway through which electromagnetic fields could impact cellular biology and health.