Short-Term Effects of Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields on Neurogenesis and Wnt Signaling in Amniotic Fluid Cells

Background: Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) at 50 Hz are prevalent in household electrical systems. Although various studies have examined the effects of ELF-EMF on cell proliferation and gene expression, its impact on amniotic fluid cells (AFCs) remains unclear. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the potential effects of ELF-EMFs on gene expression related to neurogenesis and the Wnt signaling pathway in AFCs. Methods: AFCs were isolated from amniotic fluid obtained via amniocentesis and divided into five groups: control, sham, and three groups exposed to different ELFEMF intensities (1 mT, 2 mT, 3 mT for 30 minutes/day for 7 days). Expression levels of genes involved in neurogenesis (HES1, Neurog1, Neurog2, Neurod1) and Wnt signaling (SFRP2, SFRP4, SFRP5, APC1) were analyzed using real-time PCR. Results: ELF-EMF exposure did not result in significant changes in gene expression among the experimental groups compared to controls. Conclusion: Short-term exposure (Acute exposure) to ELF-EMF at moderate intensities does not significantly impact gene expression related to neurogenesis or Wnt signaling in AFCs. Future studies should explore prolonged exposure (chronic exposure) and a broader range of intensities to evaluate developmental impacts more comprehensively.