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The effect of 2450-MHz microwave radiation during microtubular polymerization in vitro
Abstract:
Exposure to 2450-MHz (cw) microwave radiation causes inhibition of cell division in intact cells and varied in vivo biological effects in both avian and mammalian species. Because these reported effects may result from alterations in the dynamics of microtubule formation, we studied the effects of simultaneous microwave exposure (2450 MHz, cw) during each of the three critical stages of the intracellar polymerization cycle. In addition, using circular dichroism spectroscopy, we studied the effect of microwave irradiation on the secondary structure of purified tubulin polypeptides. These studies were accomplished using specially constructed exposure systems that permit the continuous recording of turbidometric or circular dichroism measurements during simultaneous exposure to microwaves. The baseline turbidity of microtubular protein did not change under the influence of microwave radiation (20 or 200 mW/g SAR) and irradiation had no effect on the light-scattering properties of the depolymerized protein. EGTA-induced polymerization and cold-induced depolymerization patterns were also similar for both control and microwave-irradiated samples. The circular dichroism spectrum of purified tubulin also did not appear to be influenced by microwave irradiation, indicating a lack of effect on the protein secondary structure. The data suggest that the cellular effects of microwaves are not due to changes in microtubular proteins or their rate of polymerization.
Insights
Microwave radiation exposure did not affect microtubule polymerization or tubulin protein structure. These findings suggest cellular effects of microwaves are not caused by changes in microtubule dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Cell Biology
- Electromagnetic Radiation Effects
Background:
- Microwave radiation (2450 MHz) is known to affect cell division and in vivo biological processes.
- Potential mechanisms include alterations in microtubule formation dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of microwave radiation on microtubule polymerization.
- To assess microwave effects on purified tubulin protein structure.
Main Methods:
- Simultaneous microwave exposure during microtubule polymerization stages.
- Turbidometry and circular dichroism spectroscopy to measure protein structure and polymerization.
- Utilized specialized exposure systems for continuous measurements.
Main Results:
- Microwave radiation (20 or 200 mW/g SAR) did not alter baseline turbidity of microtubular protein.
- No effect on light-scattering properties of depolymerized protein.
- EGTA-induced polymerization and cold-induced depolymerization patterns were unaffected.
- Circular dichroism spectra indicated no change in purified tubulin secondary structure.
Conclusions:
- Microwave irradiation does not appear to affect microtubule protein polymerization rates.
- The secondary structure of tubulin polypeptides is not influenced by microwave exposure.
- Cellular effects of microwaves are unlikely to stem from alterations in microtubule dynamics.