Medical/biological study (experimental study)

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and extremely-low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields: A study in the SOD-1 transgenic mouse model med./bio.

By: Poulletier de Gannes F, Ruffie G, Taxile M, Ladeveze E, Hurtier A, Haro E, Duleu S, Charlet de Sauvage R, Billaudel B, Geffard M, Veyret B, Lagroye I

Published in: Amyotroph Lateral Scler 2009; 10 (5-6): 370-373

Download citation in RIS format

Aim of study (acc. to author)

A transgenic mouse model was used to assess the possible effect of extremely low frequency magnetic fields on the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Background/further details

Seven mice per group were exposed to 50 Hz magnetic fields at two intensities before the onset of the clinical signs of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Endpoint

effects on the neurological system: signs of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Exposure

Exposure	Parameters
Exposure 1: 50 Hz Exposure duration: continuous for 2 hr/day, 5 day/week for 7 weeks	magnetic flux density: 100 µT effective value magnetic flux density: 1,000 µT effective value

Exposure 1

Main characteristics

Frequency	50 Hz
Type	magnetic field
Exposure duration	continuous for 2 hr/day, 5 day/week for 7 weeks

Exposure setup

Exposure source	Merritt coils
Setup	two sets of Merrit coils; mice placed in a 25 cm x 20 cm plastic cage in the center of the coil system; field uniform within 5 % inside the cage;
Sham exposure	A sham exposure was conducted.

Parameters

Measurand	Value	Type	Method	Mass	Remarks
magnetic flux density	100 µT	effective value	measured	-	-
magnetic flux density	1,000 µT	effective value	measured	-	-

Additional parameter details

The exposure levels were chosen on the basis of the European recommendation setting limits of 100 µT for public exposure and 500 µT for the workplace (occupational exposure).

Exposed system:

animal
mouse/SOD-1 (transgenic)

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

effects on the neurological system: signs of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (body weigt, motor performance (see "cognitive/behavioural endpoints"), life span)
cognitive/behavioral endpoints: motor performance (Rotarod test: time spent on a rotating rod)

Investigated system:

investigation on living organism

Time of investigation:

during exposure
after exposure

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)

The data did not reveal any evidence of a link between extremely low frequency exposure and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in this transgenic mouse model.

Study character:

medical/biological study
experimental study
full/main study

Study funded by

National Research Agency (L'Agence nationale de la recherche, ANR), France

Liebl MP et al. (2015): Low-frequency magnetic fields do not aggravate disease in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Frei P et al. (2013): Residential Distance to High-voltage Power Lines and Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases: a Danish Population-based Case-Control Study
Huss A et al. (2009): Residence near power lines and mortality from neurodegenerative diseases: longitudinal study of the Swiss population
Hug K et al. (2006): Magnetic field exposure and neurodegenerative diseases--recent epidemiological studies
Feychting M et al. (2003): Occupational Magnetic Field Exposure and Neurodegenerative Disease
Hakansson N et al. (2003): Neurodegenerative diseases in welders and other workers exposed to high levels of magnetic fields
Savitz DA et al. (1998): Magnetic field exposure and neurodegenerative disease mortality among electric utility workers
Johansen C et al. (1998): Mortality from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, other chronic disorders, and electric shocks among utility workers
Davanipour Z et al. (1997): Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields
Deapen DM et al. (1986): A case-control study of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Haynal A et al. (1964): [Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis associated with accumulated electric injury]