THE EFFECT OF STATIC MAGNETIC-FIELDS ON BIOLOGICAL-SYSTEMS - IMPLICATIONS FOR ENHANCED BIODEGRADATION

Numerous studies of the effects of magnetic fields on biological and b iochemical systems suggest the potential application of static magneti c fields to enhance microbial degradation of environmental pollutants. Potentially favorable changes in intracellular processes have been ob served in controlled studies, including changes in enzymatic activitie s, growth and respiration rates, increased motility and membrane perme ability, and morphological and developmental effects. The provocative thought of combining the emerging areas of biomagnetism and biological treatment is also supported by consideration of existing paradigms of chemistry and physics. Indeed, the few studies that have been conduct ed recently for this specific purpose show that that enhanced contamin ant biodegradation by static magnetic fields is a bona fide phenomenon . Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms responsible for the effects are not fully understood. The purpose of this article is to stimulate fundamental research leading to a better understanding and a more wide spread acceptance of magnetically modified biological treatment proces ses as an additional tool for pollution control. Emphasis is placed on providing a balanced review of pertinent studies, beginning with a pe rspective on the nature of magnetic fields used in experimental system s. The effect of static magnetic fields on biological systems at the m olecular and cellular levels are then addressed, ending with a discuss ion of theoretical models proposed to explain the observed effects and a perspective on future research.