In Vitro Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields: Changes in Tumour Cell Properties

Summary

Two human colon cancer cell lines, Colo 205 and Colo 320 DM, have been studied for their responses to 60 Hz-generated electromagnetic fields (EMF) using soft agar cloning and monoclonal antibody binding assays to assess exposure-induced changes. Cellular responses have been studied after 24 h continuous exposure of cells concurrently to four experimental conditions; i.e. no EMF (E-M-), magnetic field only (M +, 1·0 G rms), electric field only (E +, 300 mA/m² rms), and combined electric plus magnetic fields at these intensities (E + M +). Under these conditions, both cell lines demonstrated significantly increased colony formation in soft agar and increased expression of tumor associated antigens after exposure to E + M + and to M + as compared to unexposed controls.

• electromagnetic fields
• clonogenicity
• cell surface properties
• tumour cells