Sensitivity of plants to high frequency electromagnetic radiation: cellular mechanisms and morphological changes

Abstract

Overview

The proliferation of wireless devices has sharply increased the level of radiofrequency electromagnetic field radiation (EMF-r) in our environment. While previous research has primarily focused on animals, less attention has been given to how plants are affected by EMF-r. This review critically appraises existing research on the impact of EMF-r on plant development, exploring physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms.

Findings

• EMF-r's main biological effects involve the increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism and cytosolic calcium, influencing cellular responses such as gene expression and enzymatic activities.
• EMF-r exposure can result in immediate cellular alterations or delayed plant growth.

Conclusion

In recent decades, the widespread use of EMF-r devices has motivated scientists to explore their biological effects more deeply. Studies show species-specific responses depending on exposure conditions such as power density, frequency, and duration, yet the initial interaction mechanisms in plant tissues remain uncertain. Nonetheless, there is significant evidence to regard EMF-r as environmental signals that plants might integrate into their development patterns. More comprehensive global studies involving RNA sequencing, proteomics, metabolomics, and DNA methylation are recommended to fully understand the metabolic pathways influenced by EMF-r. Such insights could be instrumental for agricultural applications.