Assessment of protein and DNA polymorphisms in corn (Zea mays) under the effect of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation
Abstract
Overview
Many reports highlight biological responses of crop plants after non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) exposure on phenotypic and physiological levels. This study primarily investigates genetic alterations in proteins, isozymes, and DNA banding patterns under the stress of EMR in economic corn (Zea mays).
Methodology
The methodology employed reliable bioassays which include sodium dodecyl sulfate- polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), various isozymes analysis, random amplified polymorphic DNA- polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR), and Comet Assay.
- SDS-PAGE Analysis: Showed significant polymorphisms with variations in molecular weight between exposed and non-exposed corn seedlings.
- Isozymes Analysis: Demonstrated various isozymatic polymorphisms, reflecting changes in enzyme activity.
- RAPD-PCR: Generated amplified DNA products indicating high polymorphism values.
- Comet Assay: Reported the highest extent of DNA damage in EMR exposed corn nuclei.
Conclusions
The study concludes that exposure to EMR uniquely interacts with corn cell proteins, isozymes, and DNA, inducing a wide range of genotoxic stress. Such alterations adversely affect the growth and yield of this sensitive crop, highlighting important concerns regarding EMR's impact on agricultural genetics and food safety.