Effects of a 300 mT static magnetic field on human umbilical vein endothelial cells

This study describes the effects of a static magnetic field (SMF) on cell growth and DNA integrity of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Fast halo assay was used to investigate nuclear damage; quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR), standard PCR, and real‐time PCR were used to evaluate mitochondrial DNA integrity, content, and gene expression. HUVECs were continually exposed to a 300 mT SMF for 4, 24, 48, and 72 h. Compared to control samples (unexposed cultures) the SMF‐exposed cells did not show a statistically significant change in their viability. Conversely, the static field was shown to be significant after 4 h of exposure, inducing damage on both the nuclear and mitochondrial levels, reducing mitochondrial content and increasing reactive oxygen species. Twenty‐four hours of exposure increased mitochondrial DNA content as well as expression of one of the main genes related to mitochondrial biogenesis. No significant differences between exposed and sham cultures were found after 48 and 72 h of exposure. The results suggest that a 300 mT SMF does not cause permanent DNA damage in HUVECs and stimulates a transient mitochondrial biogenesis. Bioelectromagnetics 31:630–639, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.