Response of Young Nerium Oleander Plants to Long-Term Non-Ionizing Radiation

Authors: Aikaterina L Stefi, Konstantina Mitsigiorgi, Dido Vassilacopoulou, Nikolaos S Christodoulakis

Year: 2020 May 27

Category: Plant Biology

Journal: Planta

DOI: 10.1007/s00425-020-03405-2

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32462472/

Abstract

Overview

Exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic radiation (LF-EM) has a noted impact on plant species, influencing growth and structural development.

Findings

  • Nerium oleander Response: Despite the expected negative effects of LF-EM radiation, Nerium oleander seedlings exhibited enhanced growth and development through adaptive structural deformations.
  • Physical and Biochemical Changes: Notable changes included flattening of crypts, elimination of trichomes, reduced epidermal layers, significant oxidative stress with increased reactive oxygen species, and a decline in photosynthetic pigment absorbance.
  • Biosynthesis Increase: There was a marked increase in the biosynthesis of L-Dopa decarboxylase (DDC), which helps in producing secondary metabolites that alleviate stress.
  • Photosynthesis and Productivity: Despite reduced photosynthetic efficiency, the plants showed greater overall productivity attributed to structural adaptions facilitating better CO2 diffusion.

Conclusion

This study highlights the unique response of N. oleander to LF-EM radiation, turning a potential environmental stressor into an advantage for survival and growth.

electromagnetic radiation plant growth oxidative stress secondary metabolites environmental stress LF-EM radiation Nerium oleander
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