DNA Damage in Zebrafish Induced by Low-frequency Electromagnetic Fields: Insights from Comet Assay

Abstract

Increased exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields (LF-EMFs; 3 Hz–300 kHz) from sources like power lines, appliances, and industrial equipment has raised concerns about their potential biological effects. While high-frequency EMFs have been extensively studied, the impact of LF-EMFs, particularly on DNA integrity, remains poorly understood. Given the role of DNA damage in genomic instability and disease, this study investigates the genotoxic effects of LF-EMFs on Zebrafish DNA using the Comet Assay, a reliable tool for assessing genetic damage. Our findings reveal a significant increase in tail length (27.27 ± 3.12 µm in exposed fish, 13.62 ± 3.81 µm in controls, p < 0.01), tail DNA content (74.035 ± 5.001% in exposed fish, 33.99 ± 3.36% in controls), and a corresponding decrease in head DNA content (25.96 ± 5.001% in exposed fish, 66.003 ± 3.36% in controls), indicating elevated DNA fragmentation. The increased DNA damage may be attributed to LF-EMF-induced oxidative stress, which leads to excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. ROS can attack DNA molecules, causing strand breaks and base modifications. Additionally, LF-EMFs may impair DNA repair mechanisms, including base excision repair and non-homologous end joining, reducing the cell’s ability to fix damaged DNA. Furthermore, alterations in ion channel activity and intracellular calcium homeostasis caused by LF-EMF exposure may contribute to oxidative stress, further compromising genomic stability. These results highlight the genotoxic potential of LF-EMFs, emphasizing the need for further research to assess their risks and biological consequences.