Real-time Microwave Exposure Induces Calcium Efflux in Primary Hippocampal Neurons and Primary Cardiomyocytes

Abstract Objective To detect the effects of microwave on calcium levels in primary hippocampal neurons and primary cardiomyocytes by the real-time microwave exposure combined with laser scanning confocal microscopy. Methods The primary hippocampal neurons and primary cardiomyocytes were cultured and labeled with probes, including Fluo-4 AM, Mag-Fluo-AM, and Rhod-2, to reflect the levels of whole calcium [Ca 2+ ], endoplasmic reticulum calcium [Ca 2+ ] ER , and mitochondrial calcium [Ca 2+ ] MIT , respectively. Then, the cells were exposed to a pulsed microwave of 2.856 GHz with specific absorption rate (SAR) values of 0, 4, and 40 W/kg for 6 min to observe the changes in calcium levels. Results The results showed that the 4 and 40 W/kg microwave radiation caused a significant decrease in the levels of [Ca 2+ ], [Ca 2+ ] ER , and [Ca 2+ ] MIT in primary hippocampal neurons. In the primary cardiomyocytes, only the 40 W/kg microwave radiation caused the decrease in the levels of [Ca 2+ ], [Ca 2+ ] ER , and [Ca 2+ ] MIT . Primary hippocampal neurons were more sensitive to microwave exposure than primary cardiomyocytes. The mitochondria were more sensitive to microwave exposure than the endoplasmic reticulum. Conclusion The calcium efflux was occurred during microwave exposure in primary hippocampal neurons and primary cardiomyocytes. Additionally, neurons and mitochondria were sensitive cells and organelle respectively.