Critical role of model organism selection in assessing weak urban electromagnetic field effects: Implications for human health

Authors: Sincak M, Adamkova P, Demeckova V, Smelko M, Lipovsky P, Oravec M, Luptakova A, Sedlakova-Kadukova J

Year: 2024 Jun 29

Category: Bioelectromagnetics, Cellular Biology

Journal: Bioelectrochemistry

DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2024.108756

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38959750/

Abstract

Overview

The impact of electromagnetic fields on human health has been a major topic of investigation in recent years. Many studies have used different model organisms to assess these effects, but often with unclear consensus. This study focused on the effects of weak electromagnetic fields commonly present in urban environments, specifically frequencies of 50 Hz and a combined 50 Hz/150 Hz, on both yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and human macrophages.

Findings

  • Urban electromagnetic fields (a 4:1 ratio of 50 and 150 Hz) were found to influence biological systems differently depending on the organism studied.
  • In yeast, the only observed effect after 24 hours of exposure was the extension of the exponential growth phase by 17 hours.
  • In human macrophages (from a monocytic cell line), exposure to urban electromagnetic fields caused a rapid shift in cell phenotype from anti-inflammatory (M2) to pro-inflammatory (M1) within just 2 hours.
  • Protein composition (SDS-PAGE), growth, survival, and morphology were among the factors analyzed.
  • The choice of model organism significantly affects the observed outcomes and is crucial for studying the perception and effects of urban magnetic fields.

Risks and Implications for Human Health

The study highlights that the presence of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages, triggered by everyday exposure to weak urban electromagnetic fields, could promote chronic inflammatory reactions in healthy organisms. This connection between electromagnetic field exposure and the promotion of inflammatory immune responses signals potential health risks that require further investigation.

Conclusion

  • Macrophages are considerably more sensitive to weak electromagnetic fields compared to yeast, making them superior for modeling human responses.
  • Though the changes in macrophages were temporary, the induced pro-inflammatory state (M1) raises concerns about health risks associated with long-term, everyday exposure to weak electromagnetic fields found in urban environments.
  • Continuous exposure in daily life may adversely influence health, particularly through immune responses as demonstrated in this study.
electromagnetic fields urban environment macrophages yeast pro-inflammatory response model organisms human health
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