Experimental search for combined AC and DC magnetic field effects on ion channels

Bioelectromagnetics. 1993;14(4):315-27. doi: 10.1002/bem.2250140404.

Abstract

The hypothesis that specific combinations of DC and low frequency AC magnetic fields at so-called cyclotron-resonance conditions could affect the transport of ions through ion channels, or alter the kinetics of ion channels (opening and closing rates), has been tested. As a model system, the ion channels formed by gramicidin A incorporated in lipid bilayer membranes were studied. No significant changes in channel conductance, average lifetime, or formation rate as a function of applied fields could be detected over a wide range of frequencies and field strengths. Experiments were carried out to measure the time-resolved single-channel events and the average conductances of many-channel events in the presence of K+ and H+ ions. The channel blocking effect of Ca++ was also studied.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biophysical Phenomena
  • Biophysics
  • Cyclotrons
  • Electromagnetic Fields*
  • Gramicidin
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Ion Channels / metabolism
  • Ion Channels / radiation effects*
  • Ion Transport / radiation effects
  • Kinetics
  • Lipid Bilayers / radiation effects
  • Models, Biological
  • Potassium / metabolism

Substances

  • Ion Channels
  • Lipid Bilayers
  • Gramicidin
  • Potassium