Impact of Terahertz Radiation on Stress-Sensitive Genes of E.Coli Cell

Terahertz (THz) radiation is increasingly used in scientific studies, as well in practical applications, primarily in medicine and safety systems, therefore, exposure of living cells to THz-waves present significant interest. We studied the impact of THz radiation on E. coli biosensor cells containing plasmids with promoters of stress-sensitive genes controlling the expression of GFP. The impact of THz radiation was nonthermal, i.e., special care was taken to keep specimen temperature in the 35±2 ° C range during irradiation so that heat shock genes would not be induced. GFP level was measured by fluorometry. We found that THz radiation activates genes associated with oxidative stress response. Lower activation levels were found for copper homeostasis genes, while antibiotics resistance genes showed no response. Thus, THz radiation impact varies for different E. coli stress systems. We conclude that THz radiation significantly affects oxidative homeostasis, which is vital for E. coli cells.