Physiological responses of Plantago media to electromagnetic field of power-line frequency (50 Hz)

Experimental evidence is presented that continuous exposure of hoary plantain (Plantago media L.) seedlings to the electromagnetic field (EMF) of power-line frequency may disturb physiological, biochemical, and cytological characteristics of these plants. The increase in EMF strength in the range from 230 to 1800 V/m (350–2000 nT) was found to reduce the percentage of seed germination, the rate of cell division, and the rates of DNA and protein biosyntheses in tissues of 8-day-old seedlings. The action of EMF with the strength of 500–1000 V/m (800–1150 nT) stimulated root growth, elevated the content of malondialdehyde and low-molecular antioxidants, and enhanced the activity of superoxide dismutase. Direct correlation was revealed between lipid peroxidation rates and the activity of cellular antioxidant defense system. The wavelike changes in the content of photosynthetic pigments were observed in plantain seedlings exposed to EMF of various strengths.