Biological Effects of Intense Terahertz Waves at 2.88 THz on Breast Cancer and Melanoma Cells

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Oncology
• Terahertz Science

Background:

• Terahertz (THz) waves exhibit bioeffects on human tumor cells, suggesting potential therapeutic applications.
• Limited research exists due to the scarcity of powerful THz sources.
• Investigating THz wave bioeffects is crucial for advancing cancer treatment modalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the biological effects of high-power terahertz waves on breast cancer and melanoma cells.
• To explore the potential of terahertz free-electron lasers in cancer therapy.
• To differentiate between thermal and non-thermal effects of THz waves on cancer cells.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 2.88 THz free-electron laser as a powerful THz source.
• Exposed human breast cancer and melanoma cells to terahertz radiation.
• Analyzed morphological changes and apoptosis using flow cytometry.
• Evaluated thermal effects to determine the primary mechanism of cell death.

Main Results:

• Observed significant morphological changes in both breast cancer and melanoma cells.
• Identified early apoptotic phenomena in cancer cells exposed to THz waves.
• Flow cytometry confirmed early apoptosis induction.
• Results suggest non-thermal effects are the primary drivers of apoptosis.

Conclusions:

• Strong terahertz waves induce apoptosis in breast cancer and melanoma cells.
• Non-thermal effects of THz waves are likely responsible for the observed apoptosis.
• Terahertz waves show promise for non-inflammatory cancer treatment applications.