Oxidative stress and an animal neurotransmitter synthesizing enzyme in the leaves of wild growing myrtle after exposure to GSM radiation

Abstract

Overview

With the ubiquity of mobile phones, our planet is continually enveloped in a "cloud" of non-ionizing radiations. Given the evergreen nature and common presence in Mediterranean ecosystems of Myrtus communis L., it serves as an ideal species to study the impact of GSM non-ionizing radiation.

Findings

• The structure of exposed myrtle leaves showed no alteration in tissue arrangement despite significant changes at the cellular level.
• Noteworthy accumulation of secondary metabolites was observed in the mesophyll cells of exposed plants.
• Significant reductions in photosynthetic pigment were recorded alongside increased oxidative stress based on ROS levels.
• High levels of DDC enzyme, typically absent in control plants, were documented exclusively in the exposed leaves. This indicates a severe oxidative stress condition, potentially leading to DDC expression and enhanced biosynthesis of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

Conclusion

The results suggest a strong biological response to GSM radiation in Myrtus communis, indicating that exposure affects cellular metabolism and stress responses, which may have broader ecological and environmental implications.