Effect of extremely low frequency (ELF) 50 Hz electromagnetic field on morphological and biochemical properties of human keratinocytes (HaCaT).

In the present study, we investigated the effect of the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with human keratinocytes (HaCaT)at low frequency. HaCaT cells were exposed to a sinusoidal magnetic field at a density of 2 mT (50 Hz)These cells are a good model for studying interaction of non-ionising radiation, because they are totally open to electromagnetic waves and also because they are resistant to both mechanical and thermal stimuli. We performed scanning microscopy which showed modification in shape and morphology in exposed cells. This modification is related to differential actin distribution as revealed by phalloidin fluorescence analysis. Moreover, 50 Hz exposed cells show increased clonogenic capacity, as well as increased cellular growth as showed by clonogenicity assays and growth curves. Indirect immunofluorescence analysis using a fluorescent antibody against involucrin and b4 integrin differentiation and adhesion markers respectively, revealed an increase of involucrin expression and segregation of b4 integrin in the cell membrane in 50 Hz exposed cells, suggesting that a higher percentage of the exposed cells shows a modified pattern of adhesion and differentiation markers. We also present evidence that electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure of HaCaT cells can interfere with protein kinase activity. Our observations confirm the hypothesis that electromagnetic fields, at 50 Hz may modify cell membrane morphology and interfere with initiation of the signal cascade pathway, and cellular adhesion.