Chromosomal aberrations in human amniotic cells after intermittent exposure to fifty hertz magnetic fields

Our recent studies have shown a significant increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations in human amniotic cells after exposure to a sinusoidal 50 Hz, 30 μT (rms) magnetic field. To evaluate further interactions between chromosomes and electromagnetic fields, we have analyzed the effects of intermittent exposure. Amniotic cells were exposed for 72 h to a 50 Hz, 30 μT (rms) magnetic field in a 15 s on and 15 s off fashion. Eight experiments with cells from different fetuses were performed. The results show a 4% mean frequency of aberrations among exposed cells compared to 2% in sham-exposed cells. The difference is statistically significant, with P < 0.05 both excluding and including gaps. In another series of eight experiments, the cells were exposed in the same way but with the field on for 2 s and off for 20 s. Also in these experiments a similar increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations was seen, but only when the analysis included gaps. Continuous exposure for 72 h to 300 μT, 50 Hz, did not increase the frequency of chromosomal aberrations. The background electromagnetic fields at different locations within the two incubators used was carefully checked and was nowhere found to exceed 120 nT. Likewise, the background level of chromosomal aberrations in cells cultured at different locations in the incubators showed no significant interculture differences. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.