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Exposures to non-ionizing electromagnetic (EM) waves in the radiofrequency (RF) range have been shown to influence gene expression in various cell and tissue types. However, the specific mechanism(s) by which exposure to these waves alter gene expression is not completely clear. Recent studies have suggested changes in epigenetics as a plausible mechanism for the gene expression alterations observed in response to exposures to RF waves. In this study, we investigated if exposures to RF fields can influence epigenetics. Specifically, we examined modifications in DNA methylation patterns in response to exposures to 900 MHz RF fields in primary human keratinocytes. We assembled a custom system to allow the stable exposure of cell cultures to 900 MHz RF fields at a range of applied powers and resultant E fields. We used methylation sensitive restriction enzyme digestion and Global DNA Methylation ELISA assay to quantify the status of global DNA methylation in cells exposed to 900 MHz RF fields for different time durations and power densities. Results show significant changes in global DNA methylation in the RF exposed cells compared to the sham (unexposed) counterparts. Importantly, these changes occur in the absence of cell death and without a concomitant increase in temperature during exposures, suggesting that alterations in DNA methylation are not associated with toxic or thermal effects of the RF fields. This suggests that RF exposure changes DNA methylation patterns and can potentially alter gene expression.
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