Global protein expression in response to extremely low frequency magnetic fields

Abstract

Daily exposure to extremely low frequency magnetic fields (ELF MF) in the environment has raised public concerns on human health. Epidemiological studies suggest that exposure to ELF MF might associate with an elevated risk of cancer and other diseases in humans. To explain and/or support epidemiological observations, many laboratory studies have been conducted to elucidate the biological effects of ELF MF exposure and the underlying mechanisms of action. In order to reveal the global effects of ELF MF on protein expression, the proteomics approaches has been employed in this research field. In 2005, WHO organized a Workshop on Application of Proteomics and Transcriptomics in electromagnetic fields (EMF) Research in Helsinki, Finland to discuss the related problems and solutions. Later the journal Proteomics published a special issue devoted to the application of proteomics to EMF research. This chapter aims to summarize the current research progress and discuss the applicability of proteomics approaches in studying on ELF MF induced biological effects and the underlying mechanisms.