Exposure to 2100 MHz electromagnetic field radiations induces reactive oxygen species generation in Allium cepa roots

Authors: Shikha Chandel, Shalinder Kaur, Harminder Pal Singh, Daizy Rani Batish, Ravinder Kumar Kohli

Year: Dec 2017

Category: Environmental Science

Journal: Journal of Microscopy and Ultrastructure

URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213879X17300809

Abstract

Overview of the Study

As cell phones become ubiquitous, concerns have grown about the increase in electromagnetic field radiations (EMF-r) and their effects on living organisms.

Study Focus

The research specifically investigated the oxidative damage induced by EMF-r in onion (Allium cepa) roots exposed to a 2100 MHz frequency. This is a typical frequency used by mobile communications, thus the findings may extend implications regarding everyday exposure to such radiations.

Methodology & Findings

  • Onion roots were exposed to EMF-r at 2100 MHz for 1, 2, and 4 hours in a single day.
  • Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured, including malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and superoxide anion (O2−).
  • There was a significant increase in MDA, H2O2, and O2− levels.
  • Activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutases (SOD) and catalases (CAT) were upregulated.

Conclusion

The study concluded that exposure to 2100 MHz EMF-r from cell phones could induce significant oxidative stress in biological tissues, as observed in onion roots. This adds to the existing concerns about the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to electromagnetic radiation.

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