Assessing cell viability and genotoxicity in Trigonella foenum-graecum L. exposed to 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz...

The escalating utilization of wireless electronic devices, notably cellular phones, has led to a substantial augmentation in the levels of electromagnetic field radiation (EMF-r) within the environment. Consequently, an imperative arises to investigate the impact of these radiations on biological systems, specifically on plants. In this study, we examined the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz EMF-r on the Trigonella foenum-graecum L. test system, evaluating parameters such as percentage germination, growth characteristics, biochemical activities, cell viability and chromosomal aberrations. The roots and shoots of T. foenum-graecum L. were exposed to 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz EMF-r for varied exposure durations (0.5 h, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h and 8 h/day) (at a power density of 10.0 dBm). Substantial reductions in root and shoot lengths were observed after a exposure period of 4 h and 8 h at a frequency of 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz. Genotoxic studies revealed both physiological and clastogenic effects of EMF-r, as evidenced by an increase in chromosomal aberrations (CAs). Biochemical analyses demonstrated elevated malondialdehyde levels and activities of various antioxidative enzymes following 2 h and 4 h per day exposure to 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz EMF-r. Chromosomal aberrations increased by 2.88%-14.86% and 2.84%-18.49% (0.5 h-8 h per day) exposure to 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz, respectively when compared to that of the control group. Exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF-r) at both 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz resulted in reduced cell viability. This study examines the impact of electromagnetic fields (EMF-r) at 2100 MHz and 2300 MHz on plant root meristems. The results reveal more pronounced genotoxic effects at 2100 MHz, highlighting the frequency-dependent nature of EMF-r impacts. By providing insights into these frequency-specific effects, this research addresses a critical gap in understanding how EMF-r influences plant cellular health and offers guidance for mitigating potential environmental risks from mobile communication technologies.