Transmembrane potential induced on the internal organelle by a time-varying magnetic field: a model study

Abstract

BackgroundWhen a cell is exposed to a time-varying magnetic field, this leads to an induced voltage on the cytoplasmic membrane, as well as on the membranes of the internal organelles, such as mitochondria. These potential changes in the organelles could have a significant impact on their functionality. However, a quantitative analysis on the magnetically-induced membrane potential on the internal organelles has not been performed.MethodsUsing a two-shell model, we provided the first analytical solution for the transmembrane potential in the organelle membrane induced by a time-varying magnetic field. We then analyzed factors that impact on the polarization of the organelle, including the frequency of the magnetic field, the presence of the outer cytoplasmic membrane, and electrical and geometrical parameters of the cytoplasmic membrane and the organelle membrane.ResultsThe amount of polarization in the organelle was less than its counterpart in the cytoplasmic membrane. This was largely due to the presence of the cell membrane, which "shielded" the internal organelle from excessive polarization by the field. Organelle polarization was largely dependent on the frequency of the magnetic field, and its polarization was not significant under the low frequency band used for transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Both the properties of the cytoplasmic and the organelle membranes affect the polarization of the internal organelle in a frequency-dependent manner.ConclusionsThe work provided a theoretical framework and insights into factors affecting mitochondrial function under time-varying magnetic stimulation, and provided evidence that TMS does not affect normal mitochondrial functionality by altering its membrane potential.

Comparative Analysis of Biological Effects Induced on Different Cell Types by Magnetic Fields with Magnetic Flux Densities in the Range of 1–60 mT and Frequencies up to 50 Hz

“…Interestingly, these experimental observations have been mathematically rationalized by Ye et al, (2010). They have provided a theoretical model explaining how a MF (PMF) leads to an induced voltage on the cytoplasmic membrane, as well as on membranes of the internal organelles such as mitochondria, and how these transmembrane potential changes could have a significant impact on their functionality [18] (see Section 3.2.4).…”

Variable spatial magnetic field influences peripheral nerves regeneration in rats

“…According to them, altering magnetic field causes decrease in ATP-dependent Na þ /K þ pump activity in cell membrane as well as a change in permeability of cell membrane to calcium ions, what results in changes of intracellular cations content (Koch et al, 2003;Obo et al, 2002;Sieroń and Cieślar, 2003;Ye et al, 2010).…”

Peer Review #2 of "Shielding effects of myelin sheath on axolemma depolarization under transverse electric field stimulation (v0.2)"

“…Today, electric stimulation of neurons in the peripheral or central nervous systems have been widely utilized for controlling neural network activity (Selimbeyoglu & Parvizi 2010), synaptic transmission (Nowak & Bullier 1998), and pain (Coderre et al 1993). Electric currents can also be generated via magneto-electric induction with magnetic coils for non-invasive control of neural activity (Maccabee et al 1991;Maccabee et al 1993;Ye et al 2011;Ye et al 2010;).…”