Effect of 2850 MHz electromagnetic field radiation on the early growth, antioxidant activity, and secondary metabolite profile of red and green cabbage

Abstract

Overview

The rapid development in telecommunications technology has significantly raised the levels of radiofrequency radiation in our environment, prompting research into its effects on biological organisms. This study investigates how 2850 MHz electromagnetic field radiation (EMF-r) impacts the growth and metabolic processes of red and green cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) cultivars.

Methodology

Seedlings were exposed to EMF-r daily for concentrations of one, two, and four hours over a week. Both immediate and 24-hour post-exposure effects were recorded to capture short-term responses in growth and metabolic activities.

Findings

• Both the root and shoot lengths of the seedlings reduced significantly in a dose-dependent manner across both cabbage types when compared to control groups.
• Decreases in chlorophyll and carotenoid content were noted, alongside marked reductions in overall biomass.
• Conversely, phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin levels increased with longer exposure durations.
• Oxidative stress indicators, including DPPH activity and hydrogen peroxide content, similarly escalated with exposure time, suggesting increased antioxidant activities within the cultivars under stress.
• Activities of key antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutases, catalases, and guaiacol peroxidases) demonstrated significant upticks in exposed plants compared to controls.

Conclusion

Exposure to 2850 MHz EMF-r notably hinders early developmental stages of cabbage seedlings, shifting their metabolic profiles and increasing oxidative stress. The implications of these changes suggest potential adaptive responses in plant physiology under EMF exposure.