Impacts of Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) on Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)—Evidence for RF-EMF Interference with Plant Stress Responses

Authors: Tran NT, Jokic L, Keller J, Geier JU, Kaldenhoff R

Year: 2023

Category: Plant Biology

Journal: Plants

DOI: 10.3390/plants12051082

URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/12/5/1082

Abstract

Overview

The study focuses on the influence of radio frequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) on lettuce plants. With the rise of wireless technology, exposure to RF-EMF has substantially increased, affecting various organisms including plants.

Findings

  • Under greenhouse conditions, RF-EMF exposure showed minimal impact on lettuce, affecting only fast chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics slightly and having no effect on flowering time.
  • In outdoor conditions, significant effects were observed, including a decreased in photosynthetic efficiency and an accelerated flowering time.
  • Gene expression analysis indicated a significant down-regulation of stress-related genes (VDE and ZEP) in RF-EMF exposed plants, suggesting potential interference with plant stress responses.

Conclusion

The results imply that RF-EMF may interfere with plant stress responses, thereby potentially reducing plant stress tolerance and impacting overall plant health.

RF-EMF plant stress responses lettuce photosynthesis gene expression
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