Hypomagnetic fields modulate lifespan, physical ability and mitochondrial metabolism in a Pink1 model of neurodegeneration.

Modulation of magnetic field strength may be a potential therapeutic strategy, particularly in the context of ageing and neurodegenerative disease. Research on magnetic fields (MFs) has been motivated by diverse factors, including interplanetary space travel, emissions from medical equipment, and the mechanisms underlying magnetoreception in migratory birds. The biochemistry of hypomagnetic field (HMFs; <5 μT) exposure has focused on healthy model organisms, leaving their therapeutic potential unexplored. We investigated the effects of HMF exposure in a neurodegenerative disease model. The Pink1 loss-of-function model recapitulates key features of early-onset Parkinson's disease, including mitochondrial dysfunction, locomotor impairment, dopaminergic neuron degeneration, and reduced lifespan. A MuMagnetic GA4 benchtop shielding apparatus (Magnetic Shields Limited, UK), was used to generate a uniform internal field of 5 nT, to effectively remove Earth's geomagnetic field (GMF; 25-60 μT). Wild-type W118 (WT) and Pink1B9/Y (Pink1⁻) D. melanogaster were exposed to HMF and assessed for survival, locomotor performance, mitochondrial respirometry and reactive oxygen species production. HMF exposure increased lifespan in Pink1⁻ D. melanogaster by 20%, with a paradoxical reduction in climbing ability. WT D. melanogaster had decreased lifespan and improved locomotor performance under HMF. Nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centre quantum diamond sensors, were used to detect elevated superoxide levels following HMF exposure. High-resolution respirometry showed increased mitochondrial complex II activity under HMF conditions. We demonstrate that hypomagnetic fields modulate mitochondrial physiology and reactive oxygen species production in D. melanogaster. This highlights the potential of HMF exposure as a novel, non-invasive approach for modulating mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative disease.