Epigenetic Modifications Induced by Submillimeter Wave Exposure

Recent reports have shown that exposure to nonionizing electromagnetic waves, including submillimeter waves (sub-MMWs), can influence gene expression in skin tissues and various cell types. However, the mechanism(s) by which exposure to sub-MMWs alters gene expression has not been elucidated. In the present study, we hypothesize that sub-MMW exposure induces epigenetic modifications that result in altered gene expression. Specifically, we explore the effects of sub-MMW exposure on DNA methylation in human primary skin cell lines. Cells were exposed to a frequency of 2.52 THz for different time durations, and changes in global DNA methylation were examined following each exposure. The results presented herein are essential for understanding the role DNA methylation plays in gene regulation in sub-MMW exposed cells.