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Panda DK, Das DP, Behera SK, Dhal NK. Review on the impact of cell phone radiation effects on green plants. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:565. [PMID: 38773047 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12623-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to assess the impact of cell phone radiation effects on green plants. Rapid progress in networking and communication systems has introduced frequency- and amplitude-modulated technologies to the world with higher allowed bands and greater speed by using high-powered radio generators, which facilitate high definition connectivity, rapid transfer of larger data files, and quick multiple accesses. These cause frequent exposure of cellular radiation to the biological world from a number of sources. Key factors like a range of frequencies, time durations, power densities, and electric fields were found to have differential impacts on the growth and development of green plants. As far as the effects on green plants are concerned in this review, alterations in their morphological characteristics like overall growth, canopy density, and pigmentation to physiological variations like chlorophyll fluorescence and change in membrane potential etc. have been found to be affected by cellular radiation. On the other hand, elevated oxidative status of the cell, macromolecular damage, and lipid peroxidation have been found frequently. On the chromosomal level, micronuclei formation, spindle detachments, and increased mitotic indexes etc. have been noticed. Transcription factors were found to be overexpressed in many cases due to the cellular radiation impact, which shows effects at the molecular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Kumar Panda
- Environment and Sustainability Department, CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, RRL Campus, Sachivalaya MargAcharya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, 751013, Odisha, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Debi Prasad Das
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- Project Engineering and Instrumentation Department, CSIR-Institutes of Minerals and Materials Technology, Sachivalaya Marg , RRL Campus, Acharya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, 751013, Odisha, India
| | - Santosh Kumar Behera
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
- Project Engineering and Instrumentation Department, CSIR-Institutes of Minerals and Materials Technology, Sachivalaya Marg , RRL Campus, Acharya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, 751013, Odisha, India
| | - Nabin Kumar Dhal
- Environment and Sustainability Department, CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, RRL Campus, Sachivalaya MargAcharya Vihar, Bhubaneswar, 751013, Odisha, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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Porcher A, Wilmot N, Bonnet P, Procaccio V, Vian A. Changes in Gene Expression After Exposing Arabidopsis thaliana Plants to Nanosecond High Amplitude Electromagnetic Field Pulses. Bioelectromagnetics 2024; 45:4-15. [PMID: 37408527 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
The biological effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields due to wireless technologies and connected devices are a subject of particular research interest. Ultrashort high-amplitude electromagnetic field pulses delivered to biological samples using immersed electrodes in a dedicated cuvette have widely demonstrated their effectiveness in triggering several cell responses including increased cytosolic calcium concentration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In contrast, the effects of these pulses are poorly documented when electromagnetic pulses are delivered through an antenna. Here we exposed Arabidopsis thaliana plants to 30,000 pulses (237 kV m-1 , 280 ps rise-time, duration of 500 ps) emitted through a Koshelev antenna and monitored the consequences of electromagnetic fields exposure on the expression levels of several key genes involved in calcium metabolism, signal transduction, ROS, and energy status. We found that this treatment was mostly unable to trigger significant changes in the messenger RNA accumulation of calmodulin, Zinc-Finger protein ZAT12, NADPH oxidase/respiratory burst oxidase homolog (RBOH) isoforms D and F, Catalase (CAT2), glutamate-cystein ligase (GSH1), glutathione synthetase (GSH2), Sucrose non-fermenting-related Kinase 1 (SnRK1) and Target of rapamycin (TOR). In contrast, Ascorbate peroxidases APX-1 and APX-6 were significantly induced 3 h after the exposure. These results suggest that this treatment, although quite strong in amplitude, is mostly ineffective in inducing biological effects at the transcriptional level when delivered by an antenna. © 2023 The Authors. Bioelectromagnetics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Bioelectromagnetics Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Porcher
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Nancy Wilmot
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, Angers, France
| | - Pierre Bonnet
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Vincent Procaccio
- Univ Angers, CHU Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MITOVASC, SFR ICAT, Angers, France
| | - Alain Vian
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, Angers, France
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Xia Q, Zheng Y, Wang L, Chen X. Proposing Signaling Molecules as Key Optimization Targets for Intensifying the Phytochemical Biosynthesis Induced by Emerging Nonthermal Stress Pretreatments of Plant-Based Foods: A Focus on γ-Aminobutyric Acid. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:12622-12644. [PMID: 37599447 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c04413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Emerging evidence has confirmed the role of emerging nonthermal stressors (e.g., electromagnetic fields, ultrasonication, plasma) in accumulating bioactive metabolites in plant-based food. However, the signal decoding mechanisms behind NonTt-driven phytochemical production remain unclear, hindering postharvest bioactive component intensification. This study aims to summarize the association between signaling molecules and bioactive secondary metabolite production under nonthermal conditions, demonstrating the feasibility of enhancing phytochemical accumulation through signaling molecule crosstalk manipulation. Nonthermal elicitors were found to be capable of inducing stress metabolisms and activating various signaling molecules, similar to conventional abiotic stress. A simplified pathway model for nonthermally induced γ-aminobutyric acid accumulation was proposed with reactive oxygen species and calcium signaling being versatile pathways responsive to nonthermal elicitors. Manipulating signal molecules/pathways under nonthermal conditions can intensify phytochemical biosynthesis. Further research is needed to integrate signaling molecule responses and metabolic network shifts in nonthermally stressed plant-based matrices, balancing quality modifications and intensification of food functionality potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
- College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Protein Food Processing Technology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315832, China
| | - Yuanrong Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Dairy Biotechnology, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Dairy Biotechnology, Dairy Research Institute, Bright Dairy & Food Co., Ltd., Shanghai 200436, China
| | - Libin Wang
- College of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Xiaojia Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau
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Porcher A, Girard S, Bonnet P, Rouveure R, Guérin V, Paladian F, Vian A. Non thermal 2.45 GHz electromagnetic exposure causes rapid changes in Arabidopsis thaliana metabolism. JOURNAL OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 286:153999. [PMID: 37210775 DOI: 10.1016/j.jplph.2023.153999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Numerous studies report different types of responses following exposure of plants to high frequency electromagnetic fields (HF-EMF). While this phenomenon is related to tissue heating in animals, the situation is much less straightforward in plants where metabolic changes seem to occur without tissue temperature increase. We have set up an exposure system allowing reliable measurements of tissue heating (using a reflectometric probe and thermal imaging) after a long exposure (30 min) to an electromagnetic field of 2.45 GHz transmitted through a horn antenna (about 100 V m-1 at the plant level). We did not observe any heating of the tissues, but we detected rapid increases (60 min) in the accumulation of transcripts of stress-related genes (TCH1 and ZAT12 transcription factor) or involved in ROS metabolism (RBOHF and APX1). At the same time, the amounts of hydrogen peroxide and dehydroascorbic acid increased while glutathione (reduced and oxidized forms), ascorbic acid, and lipid peroxidation remained stable. Therefore, our results unambiguously show that molecular and biochemical responses occur rapidly (within 60min) in plants after exposure to an electromagnetic field, in absence of tissue heating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Porcher
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sébastien Girard
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Pierre Bonnet
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Raphaël Rouveure
- INRAE Clermont Clermont Auvergne University, INRAE, UR TSCF, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Vincent Guérin
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France
| | - Françoise Paladian
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Alain Vian
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000, Angers, France.
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Tran NT, Jokic L, Keller J, Geier JU, Kaldenhoff R. Impacts of Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) on Lettuce ( Lactuca sativa)-Evidence for RF-EMF Interference with Plant Stress Responses. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:1082. [PMID: 36903942 PMCID: PMC10005510 DOI: 10.3390/plants12051082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The increased use of wireless technology causes a significant exposure increase for all living organisms to radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). This comprises bacteria, animals, and also plants. Unfortunately, our understanding of how RF-EMF influences plants and plant physiology remains inadequate. In this study, we examined the effects of RF-EMF radiation on lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa) in both indoor and outdoor environments using the frequency ranges of 1890-1900 MHz (DECT) at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (Wi-Fi). Under greenhouse conditions, RF-EMF exposure had only a minor impact on fast chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics and no effect on plant flowering time. In contrast, lettuce plants exposed to RF-EMF in the field showed a significant and systemic decrease in photosynthetic efficiency and accelerated flowering time compared to the control groups. Gene expression analysis revealed significant down-regulation of two stress-related genes in RF-EMF-exposed plants: violaxanthin de-epoxidase (VDE) and zeaxanthin epoxidase (ZEP). RF-EMF-exposed plants had lower Photosystem II's maximal photochemical quantum yield (FV/FM) and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) than control plants under light stress conditions. In summary, our results imply that RF-EMF might interfere with plant stress responses and reduced plant stress tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nam Trung Tran
- Applied Plant Sciences, Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Luca Jokic
- Applied Plant Sciences, Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | | | - Ralf Kaldenhoff
- Applied Plant Sciences, Department of Biology, Technical University Darmstadt, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany
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Pophof B, Henschenmacher B, Kattnig DR, Kuhne J, Vian A, Ziegelberger G. Biological Effects of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields above 100 MHz on Fauna and Flora: Workshop Report. HEALTH PHYSICS 2023; 124:31-38. [PMID: 36480583 PMCID: PMC9722376 DOI: 10.1097/hp.0000000000001625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This report summarizes the effects of anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic fields with frequencies above 100 MHz on flora and fauna presented at an international workshop held on 5-7 November 2019 in Munich, Germany. Anthropogenic radiofrequency electromagnetic fields at these frequencies are commonplace; e.g., originating from transmitters used for terrestrial radio and TV broadcasting, mobile communication, wireless internet networks, and radar technologies. The effects of these radiofrequency fields on flora, fauna, and ecosystems are not well studied. For high frequencies exceeding 100 MHz, the only scientifically established action mechanism in organisms is the conversion of electromagnetic into thermal energy. In accordance with that, no proven scientific evidence of adverse effects in animals or plants under realistic environmental conditions has yet been identified from exposure to low-level anthropogenic radiofrequency fields in this frequency range. Because appropriate field studies are scarce, further studies on plants and animals are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanka Pophof
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Bernd Henschenmacher
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Daniel R. Kattnig
- Department of Physics and Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Stocker Road, Exeter, EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | - Jens Kuhne
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
| | - Alain Vian
- Univ Angers, Institut Agro, INRAE, IRHS, SFR QUASAV, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Gunde Ziegelberger
- Competence Centre for Electromagnetic Fields, Department Effects and Risks of Ionizing and Non-Ionizing Radiation, Federal Office for Radiation Protection, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany
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7
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Sharma S, Bahel S, Kaur Katnoria J. Evaluation of oxidative stress and genotoxicity of 900 MHz electromagnetic radiations using Trigonella foenum-graecum test system. PROTOPLASMA 2023; 260:209-224. [PMID: 35546647 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-022-01768-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Unprecedented growth in the communication sector and expanded usage of the number of wireless devices in the past few decades have resulted in a tremendous increase in emissions of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiations (EMRs) in the environment. The widespread EMRs have induced many significant changes in biological systems leading to oxidative stress as well as DNA damage. Considering this, the present study was planned to study the effects of EMRs at 900 MHz frequency with the power density of 10.0 dBm (0.01 W) at variable exposure periods (0.5 h, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, and 8 h per day for 7 days) on percentage germination, morphological characteristics, protein content, lipid peroxidation in terms of malondialdehyde content (MDA), and antioxidant defense system of Trigonella foenum-graecum test system. The genotoxicity was also evaluated using similar conditions. It was observed that EMRs significantly decreased the germination percentage at an exposure time of 4 h and 8 h. Fresh weight and dry weight of root and shoot did not show significant variations, while the root and shoot length have shown significant variations for 4 h and 8 h exposure period. Further, EMRs enhanced MDA indicating lipid peroxidation. In response to exposure of EMRs, there was a significant up-regulation in the activities of enzymes such as ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), guaiacol peroxidase (POD), and glutathione reductase (GR) in the roots and shoots of Trigonella-foenum graecum. The genotoxicity study showed the induction of chromosomal aberrations in root tip cells of the Trigonella foenum-graecum test system. The present study revealed the induction of oxidative stress and genotoxicity of EMRs exposure in the test system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi Sharma
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143005, India
| | - Shalini Bahel
- Department of Electronics Technology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143005, India
| | - Jatinder Kaur Katnoria
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143005, India.
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Upadhyaya C, Upadhyaya T, Patel I. Exposure effects of non-ionizing radiation of radio waves on antimicrobial potential of medicinal plants. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrras.2022.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Upadhyaya C, Upadhyaya T, Patel I. Attributes of non-ionizing radiation of 1800 MHz frequency on plant health and antioxidant content of Tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum) plants. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrras.2022.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kundu A, Vangaru S, Bhowmick S, Bhattacharyya S, Mallick AI, Gupta B. One-time Electromagnetic Irradiation Modifies Stress-sensitive Gene Expressions in Rice Plant. Bioelectromagnetics 2021; 42:649-658. [PMID: 34559898 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Electromagnetic energy is utilized over multiple frequency bands to provide seamless wireless communication services. Plants can well perceive electromagnetic energy present in open environment due to reasonably high permittivity and electrical conductivity of constituent tissues. Moreover, higher surface-to-volume ratio of plant structure facilitates increased interaction with the incident electromagnetic waves. To date, a few well-designed studies have been conducted inside controlled electromagnetic reverberation chambers to investigate either short duration-low amplitude or long duration-periodic electromagnetic irradiation-induced molecular responses in plants. However, as far as is known, studies investigating molecular responses particularly at the mid-vegetative stage in plants following one-time (hours-long) electromagnetic irradiation have not been reported earlier. Hence, the present study aimed at investigating molecular responses in 40-day-old Swarnaprabha rice plants following one-time 1837.50 MHz, 2.75 mW/m2 electromagnetic irradiation of 2 h 30 min duration. Controlled electromagnetic irradiation inside a simple reverberation chamber was ensured to achieve pure electromagnetic environment at 1837.50 MHz with deterministic electromagnetic power density at selected position. Swarnaprabha rice plant was chosen for this investigation since the rice variety is widely cultivated and consumed in the Indian subcontinent. Subsequent alterations in some selected stress-sensitive gene expressions were assayed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction technique-significant upregulation in calmodulin and phytochrome B gene expressions were noted. This investigation was purposefully focused on subsequent molecular responses immediately following electromagnetic irradiation so that the possible effects of secondary stimulations could be avoided. Observed molecular responses strongly suggested that plants perceive 1837.50 MHz, 2.75 mW/m2 electromagnetic irradiation similar to other injurious stimuli. © 2021 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardhendu Kundu
- Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering Department, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | - Sathish Vangaru
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, India
| | - Sucharita Bhowmick
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur, India
| | - Somnath Bhattacharyya
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, India
| | - Amirul I Mallick
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur, India
| | - Bhaskar Gupta
- Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering Department, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
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Gunes M, Ates K, Yalcin B, Akkurt S, Ozen S, Kaya B. An Evaluation of the Genotoxic Effects of Electromagnetic Radiation at 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz Frequencies with a SMART Assay in Drosophila melanogaster. Electromagn Biol Med 2021; 40:254-263. [PMID: 33622140 DOI: 10.1080/15368378.2021.1878210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
With the development of today's technology, the electromagnetic radiation spread by mobile phones and base stations is also rapidly increasing, and this causes serious concerns about the environment and human health. The Drosophila model organism is widely used in genetic toxicology studies because its genome is highly similar to the genes identified in human diseases. In this study, the genotoxic effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation were evaluated by the wing Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART) in Drosophila melanogaster at 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2100 MHz. The SMART method is based on the observation of genetic changes occurring in the trichomes of the Drosophila wings appearing as mutant clones under the microscope. Throughout the study, total clone parameters were evaluated by exposing the Drosophila larvae to electromagnetic fields for two, four, and six hours per day for two days. As a result of the study, it was observed that the number of mutant clones was statistically increased according to the negative control group in all applications except for the six-hour application at 1800 MHz.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merve Gunes
- Department of Biology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Kayhan Ates
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Burcin Yalcin
- Department of Biology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Sibel Akkurt
- Department of Biology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Sukru Ozen
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Bulent Kaya
- Department of Biology, Akdeniz University, Antalya, Turkey
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Abstract
This is a review of the research on the genetic effects of non-ionizing electromagnetic field (EMF), mainly on radiofrequency radiation (RFR) and static and extremely low frequency EMF (ELF-EMF). The majority of the studies are on genotoxicity (e.g., DNA damage, chromatin conformation changes, etc.) and gene expression. Genetic effects of EMF depend on various factors, including field parameters and characteristics (frequency, intensity, wave-shape), cell type, and exposure duration. The types of gene expression affected (e.g., genes involved in cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and stress responses, heat-shock proteins) are consistent with the findings that EMF causes genetic damages. Many studies reported effects in cells and animals after exposure to EMF at intensities similar to those in the public and occupational environments. The mechanisms by which effects are induced by EMF are basically unknown. Involvement of free radicals is a likely possibility. EMF also interacts synergistically with different entities on genetic functions. Interactions, particularly with chemotherapeutic compounds, raise the possibility of using EMF as an adjuvant for cancer treatment to increase the efficacy and decrease side effects of traditional chemotherapeutic drugs. Other data, such as adaptive effects and mitotic spindle aberrations after EMF exposure, further support the notion that EMF causes genetic effects in living organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lai
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Kundu A, Vangaru S, Bhattacharyya S, Mallick AI, Gupta B. Electromagnetic Irradiation Evokes Physiological and Molecular Alterations in Rice. Bioelectromagnetics 2021; 42:173-185. [PMID: 33427347 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Electromagnetic energy is the "backbone" of wireless communication systems, and its progressive use is considered to have a low but measurable impact on a wide range of biological systems. Even though a growing amount of data has reported electromagnetic energy absorption in humans along with subsequent biological effects, the consequences of electromagnetic energy absorption on plants have been insufficiently addressed. The higher surface to volume ratio along with the enormous water-ion concentrations makes the plant an ideal model to interact with non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation. In this study, controlled and periodic electromagnetic exposure of 1837.50 MHz, 2.75 W/m2 for 6 h a day on a popular rice variety (var. Satabdi) reduced the seed germination rate. The same dose of periodic electromagnetic exposure upregulated phytochrome B and phytochrome C gene transcripts in 12-day-old seedlings, whereas, in 32-day-old plants, the dose upregulated calmodulin and phytochrome C while the bZIP1 gene showed repression. However, the transcript abundance of bZIP1, phytochrome B, and phytochrome C genes was enhanced even in 12-day-old Satabdi seedlings following instantaneous short-duration (2 h 30 min) controlled electromagnetic exposure to 1837.50 MHz, 2.75 W/m2 . The reported responses in rice were observed below the international electromagnetic regulatory limits. Thus, rice plants perceived electromagnetic energy emitted by the wireless communication system as abiotic stress as per its response by upregulation or repression of known stress-sensing genes. Bioelectromagnetics. © 2020 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ardhendu Kundu
- Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
| | - Sathish Vangaru
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India
| | - Somnath Bhattacharyya
- Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India
| | - Amirul I Mallick
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, India
| | - Bhaskar Gupta
- Department of Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India
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Surducan V, Surducan E, Neamtu C, Mot AC, Ciorîță A. Effects of Long-Term Exposure to Low-Power 915 MHz Unmodulated Radiation on Phaseolus vulgaris L. Bioelectromagnetics 2020; 41:200-212. [PMID: 32030775 DOI: 10.1002/bem.22253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The morphophysiological response of Phaseolus vulgaris L. to low-power electromagnetic radiation was investigated in order to assess the potential harmful effects of long-term continuous exposure. The plants were grown in two separate electromagnetic field (EMF) shielded rooms, in a controlled, greenhouse-like environment. One batch was continuously irradiated during the growth period (from sowing to maturity) and the other one was used as a reference. An unmodulated signal at 915 MHz (the central frequency between the uplink and downlink of the GSM900 mobile communications band) was used, with a maximum power density of 10 mW/m2 measured near the plants. The plants were analyzed using ultraviolet-visible, statistical, morphometric, and electron microscopy methods. Significant differences were observed regarding the height of the plants, number of inflorescences, and chlorophyll and carotenoid content, all closely connected with the ultrastructural changes observed in the leaves. The irradiated batch grew higher (19% increase in plant height, 20% increase in stem and leaves' dry mass), with 18% fewer inflorescences, and extremely long roots (34% increase in dry mass). The ultrastructure of the irradiated leaves showed irregular cells and a higher content of plastoglobules in the chloroplasts. All results indicate that the irradiated plants suffered significant morphological modifications during their long-term exposure to the specific EM radiation. Bioelectromagnetics. © 2020 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasile Surducan
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies (INCDTIM), Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Emanoil Surducan
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies (INCDTIM), Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Camelia Neamtu
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies (INCDTIM), Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Augustin C Mot
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies (INCDTIM), Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandra Ciorîță
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies (INCDTIM), Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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15
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Michalak I, Lewandowska S, Detyna J, Olsztyńska-Janus S, Bujak H, Pacholska P. The Effect of Macroalgal Extracts and Near Infrared Radiation on Germination of Soybean Seedlings: Preliminary Research Results. OPEN CHEM 2018. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2018-0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractIn the present study, synergistic effects between the application of near-infrared radiation (NIR) and macroalgal extracts on the germination of soybean seeds were searched for. NIR is captured by special photoreceptors (i.e. phytochromes, cryptochromes and phototropins) and next plants generate a wide range of specific physiological responses through these receptors. For the study, a special system of NIR was applied to irradiate soybean seeds. To our knowledge, this is the first time this kind of radiation was used for the biostimulation of soybean seeds. Previously, the effect of other ranges of light (e.g. green, red, blue) was analysed in terms of photosynthetic activity, growth and yield of different plants, except seeds. NIR for 3 and 5 minutes was also combined with the application of macroalgal extracts used for seeds soaking. They are known as a rich source of biologically active compounds that can stimulate plant growth. These preliminary studies show that the examined factors can stimulate plant’s growth and their quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Michalak
- Department of Advanced Material Technologies, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Smoluchowskiego 25, 50-372Wrocław, Poland
| | - Sylwia Lewandowska
- Department of Genetics, Plant Breeding and Seed Production, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 24A, 50-363Wrocław, Poland
| | - Jerzy Detyna
- Department of Mechanics, Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Smoluchowskiego 25, 50-370Wrocław, Poland
| | - Sylwia Olsztyńska-Janus
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Fundamental Problems of Technology, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Pl. Grunwaldzki 13, 50-370Wrocław, Poland
| | - Henryk Bujak
- Department of Genetics, Plant Breeding and Seed Production, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 24A, 50-363Wrocław, Poland
| | - Paulina Pacholska
- Department of Advanced Material Technologies, Faculty of Chemistry, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Smoluchowskiego 25, 50-372Wrocław, Poland
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16
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Khan MD, Ali S, Azizullah A, Shuijin Z. Use of various biomarkers to explore the effects of GSM and GSM-like radiations on flowering plants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:24611-24628. [PMID: 30030756 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2734-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Since last decade, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) technology has evidently revolutionized our digital world. It uses electromagnetic frequency radiations (EMFr), ranging 850-1900 MHz, and is being composed of three main units (i.e., mobile station, access and core networks). GSM technology has significant impact on our daily life as revealed by increased number of mobile users in the world over. The main goal of the present review is to critically revisit the available literature regarding the responses of various flowering plant species towards GSM and GSM-like radiations using physiological, biochemical, molecular and cytological markers using in vitro approaches. Different monocots (tomato, onion, wheat and maize etc.) and dicots (pulses, mustard and flax) have been studied using both GSM mobile phone and GSM simulators. Different studies revealed overall reductions in germination, root-shoot lengths, dry weight, in both dose and time-dependent manners. However, there could be found incline in various parameters at biochemical and molecular levels. Furthermore, there could be found disturbances at cytological levels upon exposure of roots of onion to EMFr radiations. The overall literature review shows the negative effects of GSM and GSM-like radiations on targeted plant species. In order to alleviate the stressful effects of EMFr radiations on plants, in vivo studies need to be done using various cost-effective approaches such as use of biochar and various organic amendments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Daud Khan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, Pakistan.
- Institute of Crop Science, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture and Biotechnolgy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shafaqat Ali
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Government College University, Allama Iqbal Road, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Azizullah Azizullah
- Department of Botany, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat, 26000, Pakistan
| | - Zhu Shuijin
- Institute of Crop Science, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture and Biotechnolgy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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17
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Waldmann-Selsam C, Balmori-de la Puente A, Breunig H, Balmori A. Radiofrequency radiation injures trees around mobile phone base stations. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 572:554-569. [PMID: 27552133 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.08.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In the last two decades, the deployment of phone masts around the world has taken place and, for many years, there has been a discussion in the scientific community about the possible environmental impact from mobile phone base stations. Trees have several advantages over animals as experimental subjects and the aim of this study was to verify whether there is a connection between unusual (generally unilateral) tree damage and radiofrequency exposure. To achieve this, a detailed long-term (2006-2015) field monitoring study was performed in the cities of Bamberg and Hallstadt (Germany). During monitoring, observations and photographic recordings of unusual or unexplainable tree damage were taken, alongside the measurement of electromagnetic radiation. In 2015 measurements of RF-EMF (Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields) were carried out. A polygon spanning both cities was chosen as the study site, where 144 measurements of the radiofrequency of electromagnetic fields were taken at a height of 1.5m in streets and parks at different locations. By interpolation of the 144 measurement points, we were able to compile an electromagnetic map of the power flux density in Bamberg and Hallstadt. We selected 60 damaged trees, in addition to 30 randomly selected trees and 30 trees in low radiation areas (n=120) in this polygon. The measurements of all trees revealed significant differences between the damaged side facing a phone mast and the opposite side, as well as differences between the exposed side of damaged trees and all other groups of trees in both sides. Thus, we found that side differences in measured values of power flux density corresponded to side differences in damage. The 30 selected trees in low radiation areas (no visual contact to any phone mast and power flux density under 50μW/m2) showed no damage. Statistical analysis demonstrated that electromagnetic radiation from mobile phone masts is harmful for trees. These results are consistent with the fact that damage afflicted on trees by mobile phone towers usually start on one side, extending to the whole tree over time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alfonso Balmori
- Consejería de Medio Ambiente, Junta de Castilla y León, C/Rigoberto Cortejoso, 14 47071 Valladolid, Spain.
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18
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Halgamuge MN. Review: Weak radiofrequency radiation exposure from mobile phone radiation on plants. Electromagn Biol Med 2016; 36:213-235. [PMID: 27650031 DOI: 10.1080/15368378.2016.1220389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this article was to explore the hypothesis that non-thermal, weak, radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) have an effect on living plants. SUBJECT AND METHODS In this study, we performed an analysis of the data extracted from the 45 peer-reviewed scientific publications (1996-2016) describing 169 experimental observations to detect the physiological and morphological changes in plants due to the non-thermal RF-EMF effects from mobile phone radiation. Twenty-nine different species of plants were considered in this work. RESULTS Our analysis demonstrates that the data from a substantial amount of the studies on RF-EMFs from mobile phones show physiological and/or morphological effects (89.9%, p < 0.001). Additionally, our analysis of the results from these reported studies demonstrates that the maize, roselle, pea, fenugreek, duckweeds, tomato, onions and mungbean plants seem to be very sensitive to RF-EMFs. Our findings also suggest that plants seem to be more responsive to certain frequencies, especially the frequencies between (i) 800 and 1500 MHz (p < 0.0001), (ii) 1500 and 2400 MHz (p < 0.0001) and (iii) 3500 and 8000 MHz (p = 0.0161). CONCLUSION The available literature on the effect of RF-EMFs on plants to date observed the significant trend of radiofrequency radiation influence on plants. Hence, this study provides new evidence supporting our hypothesis. Nonetheless, this endorses the need for more experiments to observe the effects of RF-EMFs, especially for the longer exposure durations, using the whole organisms. The above observation agrees with our earlier study, in that it supported that it is not a well-grounded method to characterize biological effects without considering the exposure duration. Nevertheless, none of these findings can be directly associated with human; however, on the other hand, this cannot be excluded, as it can impact the human welfare and health, either directly or indirectly, due to their complexity and varied effects (calcium metabolism, stress proteins, etc.). This study should be useful as a reference for researchers conducting epidemiological studies and the long-term experiments, using whole organisms, to observe the effects of RF-EMFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malka N Halgamuge
- a Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering , The University of Melbourne , Parkville , Victoria , Australia
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19
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Plant Responses to High Frequency Electromagnetic Fields. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:1830262. [PMID: 26981524 PMCID: PMC4769733 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1830262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
High frequency nonionizing electromagnetic fields (HF-EMF) that are increasingly present in the environment constitute a genuine environmental stimulus able to evoke specific responses in plants that share many similarities with those observed after a stressful treatment. Plants constitute an outstanding model to study such interactions since their architecture (high surface area to volume ratio) optimizes their interaction with the environment. In the present review, after identifying the main exposure devices (transverse and gigahertz electromagnetic cells, wave guide, and mode stirred reverberating chamber) and general physics laws that govern EMF interactions with plants, we illustrate some of the observed responses after exposure to HF-EMF at the cellular, molecular, and whole plant scale. Indeed, numerous metabolic activities (reactive oxygen species metabolism, α- and β-amylase, Krebs cycle, pentose phosphate pathway, chlorophyll content, terpene emission, etc.) are modified, gene expression altered (calmodulin, calcium-dependent protein kinase, and proteinase inhibitor), and growth reduced (stem elongation and dry weight) after low power (i.e., nonthermal) HF-EMF exposure. These changes occur not only in the tissues directly exposed but also systemically in distant tissues. While the long-term impact of these metabolic changes remains largely unknown, we propose to consider nonionizing HF-EMF radiation as a noninjurious, genuine environmental factor that readily evokes changes in plant metabolism.
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