Static electric field inhibits the proliferation and secretion functions of splenic lymphocytes in mice

ABSTRACT

In recent years, the effects of static electric field (SEF) generated by ultra-high voltage (UHV) direct current (DC) transmission lines on health has drawn public attention. To study the effects of SEF on the spleen, mice were exposed to 56.3 ± 1.4 kV/m SEF. Results showed that on the 28^th day of SEF exposure, the contents of IL-10 and IFN-γ in the supernatant of homogenate, the proliferation levels of lymphocytes and the content of intracellular ROS decreased significantly, while the activity of SOD increased significantly. Meanwhile, the rupture of cellular membrane, the deficiency of mitochondrial cristae and the vacuolization of mitochondria appeared in lymphocytes. Analysis showed that the rupture of the cellular membrane caused the death of T lymphocytes, which would lead to the reduction of IL-10 and IFN-γ secretions. The damage of mitochondria could reduce the production of ATP and the content of ROS, which could inhibit the proliferation of splenic lymphocytes.

KEYWORDS:

• Static electric field
• spleen
• ultrastructure
• proliferation
• secretion

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by the Science and Technology Project of State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., LTD (Project No. 5211DS190031).

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

The work was supported by the the State Grid Zhejiang Electric Power Co., LTD [Project No. 5211DS190031].