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Metallothionein content increased in the liver of mice exposed to magnetic fields
1Department of Public Health and Environmental Medicine, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract:
Although recent studies have shown that various stress can induce metallothionein (MT) synthesis in animal tissues, the induction of MT synthesis by exposure to static magnetic fields (SMF) has not been reported. We measured MT levels in the liver, kidney and brain of mice exposed to SMF and also evaluated the effect of SMF exposure on the induction of hepatic MT by treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). The MT content in the liver was significantly increased by exposure to 4.7 T of SMF for 6, 24, or 48 h, whereas that in the kidney or brain was not changed compared to the control. The combination of CCl4 injection and SMF exposure induced elevation of the hepatic MT content exceeding that induced by either treatment alone. These results indicate that exposure to the strong SMF induces MT synthesis in the liver in mice and enhances the hepatic MT synthesis induced by CCl4 administration.
Insights
Static magnetic fields (SMF) can induce metallothionein (MT) synthesis in mouse liver. Combining SMF exposure with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) further enhanced this metallothionein induction.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Metallothionein (MT) synthesis is induced by various stressors.
- The effect of static magnetic fields (SMF) on MT synthesis is not well-documented.
- Understanding MT induction mechanisms is crucial for assessing environmental health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of SMF exposure on metallothionein (MT) levels in mice.
- To determine if SMF exposure influences MT induction by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4).
Main Methods:
- Mice were exposed to 4.7 T static magnetic fields (SMF) for varying durations.
- Metallothionein (MT) levels were measured in liver, kidney, and brain tissues.
- The effect of combined SMF exposure and CCl4 administration on hepatic MT was evaluated.
Main Results:
- SMF exposure significantly increased MT content in the liver.
- No significant changes in MT levels were observed in the kidney or brain.
- Combined SMF exposure and CCl4 treatment resulted in higher hepatic MT levels than either treatment alone.
Conclusions:
- Strong static magnetic fields (SMF) can induce metallothionein (MT) synthesis in mouse liver.
- SMF exposure potentiates the induction of hepatic MT by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4).
- These findings highlight a novel biological effect of SMF relevant to toxicology and environmental health.