Static magnetic field effects on Paramecium caudatum under calcium channel blockade with magnesium sulfate

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Dept. of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran

2 Shahed University

Abstract

Introduction and purpose: According to evidence, the effect of static magnetic field (SMF) against motor learning deficits has been attributed to the effect of the field on calcium (Ca) channel conductance, but it is not fully understood. We treated Paramecium caudatum with a Ca channel blocker, magnesium sulfate (MgSO4), in the presence or absence of SMF. Materials and methods: P. caudatum was collected from temporary ponds, specifically identified, and cultured on straw. After sequential passage, the pure medium was divided into two media and placed in standard laboratory conditions or SMF (72 hours). A small drop (0.1 mL) of each medium was placed on the slide and studied 25 times under x4 magnification during 30 seconds period with 5 seconds intervals. The control groups only received 1 μL of distilled water. Different doses of MgSO4 (1, 4, 8, 16 and 32 μg/μL) were used in both conditions. The swimming and avoidance behavior of the animal was recorded live, and after fixation, the pellicular motor system, Ca channel and macronucleus were carefully examined. All data were analyzed using ANOVA. Results: The swimming movements of animals in the field were intensely reduced when treated with MgSO4. The use of the blocker also caused the destruction of some pellicular and macronucleus structures in the presence of SMF. Conclusion: With the use of MgSO4, the adverse effects of SMF on the motility and structure of Paramecium were enhanced, indicating that Ca ions play an important role in the protective effects of the magnetic field.

Keywords

Journal of Basic and Clinical Pathophysiology

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 22 November 2025

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