<b>8-T static magnetic field changes the nerve excitation of </b><b>slow conduction component of the rat sciatic nerve </b>

Abstract

The effects of static magnetic field (SMF) on nerve excitation processes are poorly understood. This study investigates compound nerve action potential (CNAP) of anesthetized rat sciatic nerves exposed to strong SMF of up to 8 Tesla (T). Our experimental results show that no significant changes were registered in the distal latencies and amplitudes of faster fiber, A α/β fiber (Conduction velocity: C.V.= 50 - 12 m/s) under 8-T SMF; however, the amplitudes of slow fiber, A δ-fiber (C.V.= 12 - 1.3 m/s）and slowest fiber, C-fiber (C.V.= 1.3 - 0.4 m/s) are significantly enhanced with a intensity higher than 5-T SMF exposure for 60 s in a reversible and dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that SMF may selectively influence fibers conducting at slow velocities which related to pain. This is the first study to show that strong SMF influences the mammalian sensory system. These results may reveal possible biological and therapeutic effects of SMF on nervous system.