Morphological, biochemical and genotoxic effects of non-ionizing radiation at 1800 MHz and 2400 MHz frequencies in Allium cepa L

Abstract

Overview

With the frequent and increasing daily use of electronic devices, exposure to non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) has become more prevalent in our natural environment. This research investigates the effects of EMR at 1800 MHz and 2400 MHz frequencies, with a power output of 10.0 dBm (0.01 W), on Allium cepa L. plants. Plants were exposed for varying durations—1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours per day over 7 days.

Findings

• Morphological Impact: Prolonged EMR exposure led to reductions in root length, fresh weight, and dry weight of the plants.
• Biochemical Changes: Protein content in plant tissues showed a decrease with longer exposure. The activities of several antioxidative enzymes, including ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), guaiacol peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and dehydroascorbate (DHAR), were significantly increased, particularly during longer exposure (6 h/day and 8 h/day).
• Genotoxicity: Genotoxic assessments revealed the induction of chromosomal aberrations in the root tip cells, indicating DNA damage due to prolonged EMR exposure.
• Collectively, the study demonstrates clear links between electromagnetic field exposure and negative effects on plant morphology, biochemistry, and genetic stability, signaling potential health risks and linking EMR to oxidative stress and genotoxicity.

Conclusion

Long-term and high-duration exposure to 1800 MHz and 2400 MHz electromagnetic fields can initiate oxidative stress and genotoxic effects in Allium cepa, underscoring the risks associated with persistent EMR exposure.