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Published on: February 18, 2020
Altered calcium dynamics mediates P19-derived neuron-like cell responses to millimeter-wave radiation
I A Titushkin1, V S Rao, W F Pickard
1Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, 851 S. Morgan Street, Chicago, IL 60607, USA.
Radiation Research
|November 26, 2009
Summary
Millimeter-wave (MMW) radiation significantly increased calcium (Ca2+) spiking in neuronal cells, involving N-type calcium channels and actin reorganization. Some MMW effects, like nitric oxide production, differed from thermal responses.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Biophysics
- Electromagnetic Biology
Background:
- Intracellular calcium oscillations are crucial for cellular functions.
- Cellular responses to low-frequency electric fields are known, but non-thermal effects of millimeter-wave (MMW) radiation remain debated.
- Calcium (Ca2+) dynamics can be influenced by external physical cues like electromagnetic fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the real-time effects of 94 GHz millimeter-wave (MMW) radiation on intracellular calcium (Ca2+) oscillations in mouse embryonic stem cell-derived neuronal cells.
- To explore the molecular mechanisms and potential non-thermal bioeffects of MMW exposure on neuronal cells.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a custom-built 94 GHz applicator for MMW stimulation of neuronal cells.
- Monitored intracellular Ca2+ oscillations in real time during MMW exposure.
- Investigated the involvement of N-type calcium channels, phospholipase C, and the actin cytoskeleton.
Main Results:
- MMW irradiation (18.6 kW/m2) significantly increased Ca2+ spiking frequency in active cells.
- Actin microfilament reorganization was observed, playing a role in Ca2+ activity and cell biomechanics.
- Nitric oxide production was induced by MMW in some cells, an effect not replicated by thermal heating up to 42°C, despite a maximum temperature rise of ~8°C.
Conclusions:
- MMW stimulation can modulate Ca2+ dynamics and cell biomechanics in neuronal cells, with mechanisms partially distinct from thermal effects.
- Findings provide insights into nociception and potential adverse bioeffects of MMW exposure.
- MMW-induced control of Ca2+ dynamics may offer novel applications in tissue engineering and regulating Ca2+-dependent cellular activities.
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