Rodent cell transformation and immediate early gene expression following 60-Hz magnetic field exposure.
Some epidemiological studies suggest that exposure to power frequency magnetic fields (MFs) may be associated with an elevated risk of human cancer, but the experimental database remains limited and controversial. We investigated the hypothesis that 60-Hz MF action at the cellular level produces changes in gene expression that can result in neoplastic transformation. Twenty-four hour 200 microT continuous MF exposure produced negative results in two standard transformation systems (Syrian hamster embryo cells and C3H/10T1/2 murine fibroblasts) with or without postexposure to a chemical promoter. This prompted a reexamination of previously reported MF-induced changes in gene expression in human HL60 cells. Extensive testing using both coded and uncoded analyses was negative for an MF effect. Using the same exposure conditions as in the transformation studies, no MF-induced changes in ornithine decarboxylase expression were observed in C3H/10T1/2 cells, casting doubt on a promotional role of MF for the tested cells and experimental conditions.
Balcer-Kubiczek
E K
EK
Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA.
Zhang
X F
XF
Harrison
G H
GH
McCready
W A
WA
Shi
Z M
ZM
Han
L H
LH
Abraham
J M
JM
Ampey
L L
LL
Meltzer
S J
SJ
Jacobs
M C
MC
Davis
C C
CC
D000818:Animals; D002460:Cell Line / Q000528:radiation effects; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic; D006224:Cricetinae; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015870:Gene Expression / Q000528:radiation effects*; D018922:HL-60 Cells / Q000528:radiation effects; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D009955:Ornithine Decarboxylase / Q000235:genetics; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000032:analysis
D012333:RNA, Messenger; D009955:Ornithine Decarboxylase