Cell oxidation–reduction imbalance after modulated radiofrequency radiation

Abstract

Aim of this study was to evaluate an influence of modulated radiofrequency field (RF) of 1800 MHz, strength of 30 V/m on oxidation–reduction processes within the cell. The assigned RF field was generated within Gigahertz Transversal Electromagnetic Mode cell equipped by signal generator, modulator, and amplifier. Cell line V79, was irradiated for 10, 30, and 60 min, specific absorption rate was calculated to be 1.6 W/kg. Cell metabolic activity and viability was determined by MTT assay. In order to define total protein content, colorimetric method was used. Concentration of oxidised proteins was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) marked with fluorescent probe 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate were measured by means of plate reader device. In comparison with control cell samples, metabolic activity and total protein content in exposed cells did not differ significantly. Concentrations of carbonyl derivates, a product of protein oxidation, insignificantly but continuously increase with duration of exposure. In exposed samples, ROS level significantly (p < 0.05) increased after 10 min of exposure. Decrease in ROS level was observed after 30-min treatment indicating antioxidant defence mechanism activation. In conclusion, under the given laboratory conditions, modulated RF radiation might cause impairment in cell oxidation–reduction equilibrium within the growing cells.

• Modulated RF
• non-thermal
• oxidised proteins
• redox processes
• ROS

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Mrs Nada Hors for her valuable help during the experiments and for her skilled technical assistance.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no declaration of interest. This study was supported by the Ministry of Science, Education and Sports, Republic of Croatia, Grant No. 022-0222411-2406.