Effect of Gd-DTPA and/or magnetic field and radiofrequency exposure on sister chromatid exchange in human peripheral lymphocytes.

The effects of a magnetic field, radiofrequency, and gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (Gd-DTPA) on the sister chromatid exchange (SCE) in human peripheral lymphocytes were investigated. Whole blood was taken from a nonsmoker and samples were exposed to magnetic force (1.5 T) alone, and to a magnetic force combined with radiofrequency waves (63.86 MHz, specific absorption rate, SAR, 0.4 W/kg). Gd-DTPA was then added to other blood samples in varying amounts and concentrations. After exposure to the conditions described above, these blood samples were cultured for 69 hours. Slides were made for an SCE evaluation. As the concentration of Gd-DTPA added to the blood increased, the SCE frequency also increased. However, the addition of Gd-DTPA at the clinical concentrations normally used did not affect the SCE frequency.