Effects of continuous exposure to power frequency electric fields on soybean Glycine max

Authors: Li X, Liu X, Wan B, Li X, Li M, Zhu H, Hua H

Year: 2019 Apr 5

Category: Environmental Science

Journal: J Environ Radioact

DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.03.026

URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30959328

Abstract

Overview

With the rapid expansion of high voltage transmission systems, concerns regarding the environmental impacts of electric fields (EFs) produced by these systems have escalated. As public concern rises, it becomes crucial to investigate how these EFs affect the surrounding biological environment.

Findings

  • Study focused on soybeans, monitoring them at various growth stages under different EF intensities (0 kV/m, 2 kV/m, and 10 kV/m).
  • The exposure effects were more noticeable during the developmental stage, particularly at the seedling phase.
  • Increase in germination rate and protective enzyme activities were observed with increased EF intensity.
  • Plants exposed to a moderate intensity EF (2 kV/m) showed improved chlorophyll content, plant height, bean dry weight, and higher nutrient levels compared to both high-intensity and control groups.
  • A detailed transcriptome analysis revealed significant gene expression alterations, with 2,977 genes up-regulated and 1,462 down-regulated, highlighting changes in ribosomal proteins and enzymes related to carbon metabolism.

Conclusion

This study illuminates the complex response of plants to continuous exposure to power frequency EFs, indicating potentially complex biosystem interactions and adaptations, and provides scientific evidence on the biological risks from environmental EF exposure on plant life.

electromagnetic fields soybean environmental effects gene transcription agronomy
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